H. pylori (Helicobacter pylori) Tests

H. pylori (Helicobacter pylori) Tests

H. pylori tests detect infections caused by Helicobacter pylori, a bacteria linked to stomach ulcers, gastritis, and peptic ulcer disease. Detecting the infection early allows for effective treatment with antibiotics.

Purpose of the Test

Your healthcare provider may order an H. pylori test if you have symptoms such as:
- Burning or gnawing abdominal pain
- Bloating
- Nausea or vomiting
- Pain that improves after eating or taking antacids

Types of H. pylori Tests

- **Breath (Urea) Test**: Measures carbon dioxide in your breath before and after drinking a urea solution. A higher level after drinking indicates infection.
- **Stool Antigen Test**: Detects antigens associated with H. pylori in your stool.
- **Blood Antibody Test**: Detects antibodies produced in response to H. pylori. It cannot distinguish between current and past infections.
- **Upper Endoscopy (EGD)**: The most accurate test, allowing direct visualization and biopsy of the stomach lining, but it's invasive.

Preparation for Testing

You may be asked to:
- Stop taking antibiotics, antacids, or proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) 2–4 weeks before testing
- Fast for several hours, depending on the test
- Follow instructions for collecting samples if doing stool or breath tests

During the Test

- **Breath Test**: You exhale into a bag, drink a solution, and exhale again into another bag.
- **Stool Test**: You collect a sample at home and return it to the lab.
- **Blood Test**: A blood sample is drawn from a vein.
- **Endoscopy**: You receive sedation and a thin scope is passed through your mouth to collect a biopsy.

Results and Interpretation

- **Positive Test**: Indicates current or past infection. You’ll likely be prescribed antibiotics.
- **Negative Test**: Indicates no active H. pylori infection.
Most results are available within 1–3 days.

Follow-Up

After treatment, your provider may repeat a noninvasive test to confirm the infection is cleared.

Most Accurate Test

Upper endoscopy is the most accurate but is reserved for complex cases. For most people, breath or stool tests are reliable and noninvasive options.