Blow into this tube: a simple breath test might spot liver disease early
NCT ID NCT04620538
First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026
Summary
This study looked at whether a breath test could help detect liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, or liver cancer. Researchers collected breath samples from 56 patients with known or suspected liver disease and analyzed them for specific chemical markers. The goal was to see if the test could accurately tell apart different stages of liver disease without needing a needle or scan.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- breath analysis (volatile organic compounds)
- What this could lead to
- If successful, this breath test could offer a simple, non-invasive way to detect serious liver diseases early, potentially replacing more invasive procedures.
- What could go wrong
- This is a small, completed study with 56 participants. The test's accuracy is still being evaluated, and it may not be reliable enough for widespread use without further validation.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
-
Imperial College Healthcare Trust
London, W2 1NY, United Kingdom
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