I. McLean Baird

SeHCAT Absorption: a Simple Test of Heal Dysfunction

A new selenium-labelled synthetic bile salt SeHCAT (taurine conjugate of 23-[75Se]-25-homocholic acid) was assessed as a test of ileal dysfunction in 20 patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Whole body retention of SeHCAT was compared with tests of vitamin B12 absorption (Schilling test and whole body retention) and the cholylglycine-1-14C breath test and faecal isotope excretion. Clear differentiation, with no overlap was obtained between 10 normal subjects and patients with ileal disease/resection in the SeHCAT 7-day retention results. The Schilling test was more sensitive; enabling discrimination between patients with limited and extensive ileal disease/resection. An unexpected rise in SeHCAT retention was observed in patients with colonic IBD. The 7-day SeHCAT retention is a safe, simple screening test for ileal dysfunction and has practical advantages compared with the Schilling test.

Absorption of Slow-release Iron and Effects of Ascorbic Acid in Normal Subjects and after Partial Gastrectomy

Radiolabelled tablets of slow-release iron and ferrous sulphate containing 50 mg of elemental iron were given to 28 patients, and iron absorption was studied using a whole body counter. There was no significant difference between the absorption of ferrous sulphate and that of slow-release iron in normal subjects, anaemic patients, anaemic and non-anaemic post-gastrectomy patients, or those with coeliac disease. Ascorbic acid potentiated iron absorption, especially in anaemic post-gastrectomy patients. The indications and hazards of slow release iron preparations are discussed.

Effect of wholemeal and white bread on iron absorption

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