Tunable diode laser spectroscopy application for ammonia and methane content measurements in human breath

Measurements of ammonia and methane concentrations by registration of high resolution absorption spectrum in 10.34 micrometers for NH 3 and 3.27 micrometers for CH 4 spectral region are described. Specific features of tunable diode lasers (TDL) system developed to ammonia and methane content measurements in human breath are discussed. Data on measurements of these trace gases in the exhalations of different people are presented. A brief overview of NH 3 , CH 4 , CO and CO 2 content measurements by the tunable diode lasers technique in human breath is given. Future prospects of medical application of TDL spectroscopy are discussed.