Helicobacter pylori Tests
Gastric Ulcer Test, H. pylori Test, Peptic Ulcer Test, Stomach Ulcer Test, Stool Antigen Test, Urea Breath Test
Test Overview
Helicobacter pylori tests are used to detect a Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection in the stomach and upper part of the small intestine (duodenum). H. pylori can cause peptic ulcers; however, most people with H. pylori in their digestive systems do not develop ulcers.
Four tests are used to detect H. pylori:
- Blood antibody test. A blood test checks to see whether your body has made antibodies to H. pylori bacteria. If you have antibodies to H. pylori in your blood, it means you either are currently infected or have been infected in the past.
- Urea breath test. A urea breath test checks to see if you have H. pylori bacteria in your stomach. The breath test is not always available.
- Stool antigen test. A stool antigen test checks to see if substances that trigger the immune system to fight an H. pylori infection (H. pylori antigens) are present in your feces (stool). Stool antigen testing may be done to help support a diagnosis of H. pylori infection or to determine whether treatment for an H. pylori infection has been successful.
- Stomach biopsy. A small sample (biopsy) is taken from the lining of your stomach and small intestine during an endoscopy. Several different tests may be done on the biopsy sample. For more information, see the medical test Upper Gastrointestinal Endoscopy.
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| Author: | Ralph Poore Monica Rhodes | Last Updated: February 28, 2008 |
| Medical Review: | Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine Andrew H. Soll, MD - Gastroenterology Andrew Swan, MD, CCFP, FCFP - Family Medicine | |
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| Topic Contents | |
 | Test Overview |
| Why It Is Done | |
| How To Prepare | |
| How It Is Done | |
| How It Feels | |
| Risks | |
| Results | |
| What Affects the Test | |
| What To Think About | |
| References | |
| Credits | |