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Helicobacter Pylori Test
A Helicobacter pylori test checks for a stomach bacterium that can cause indigestion, ulcers and other stomach problems, usually with a breath or stool test.
Quick answer
Helicobacter Pylori Test: what it is and what the results mean
Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a bacterium that can live in the stomach lining.
- Why it is done: It is used to investigate indigestion, stomach pain and suspected or confirmed ulcers, and to check whether treatment to clear the bacterium has worked.
- Understanding results: A positive result means H.
What it is
Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a bacterium that can live in the stomach lining. Tests to detect it include a breath test, a stool antigen test and a blood antibody test, or a sample taken during endoscopy.
Why it is done
It is used to investigate indigestion, stomach pain and suspected or confirmed ulcers, and to check whether treatment to clear the bacterium has worked.
What to expect
For a breath test you drink a special solution and breathe into a bag before and after. For a stool test you provide a small sample. You may need to stop certain medicines (such as acid-reducers and antibiotics) beforehand for accuracy.
Understanding the results
A positive result means H. pylori is present and treatment with a combination of medicines (antibiotics and an acid-reducer) is usually recommended. A follow-up test can confirm the infection has cleared.
Good to know
Risks and limitations
The tests are safe. Recent antibiotics and acid-reducing medicines can cause false negatives, so you may be asked to stop them beforehand. Blood antibody tests cannot tell current from past infection.
Education and reference only. This explains the test in general terms and is not medical advice. Always follow the specific instructions from the team arranging your test, and discuss your results with your clinician.
Answers
Helicobacter Pylori Test: frequently asked questions
Why must I stop acid-reducing medicines before the test?
Medicines such as proton pump inhibitors can suppress the bacteria enough to cause a false negative result, so stopping them for a period beforehand makes the breath or stool test more accurate.
How is H. pylori treated?
It is usually cleared with a one to two week course combining two antibiotics and an acid-reducing medicine. A follow-up test can confirm the infection has gone.
Related tests
Other other investigations
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Tests and treatments
- NICE — diagnostic guidance
- Association for Laboratory Medicine / relevant professional body
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