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Helicobacter Pylori Test >>
H-pylori Testing |
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H pylori Testing - Information on Types of Tests for Bacterium and Preparation for H pylori Test
H pylori Test
The Helicobacter pylori test, otherwise also known as the H pylori test, is used to detect infection caused by the H pylori bacteria. The H pylori bacteria infection occurs in the stomach or the upper portion of the intestines. The bacteria cause peptic ulcers in the duodenum. However, the bacteria may be present in the digestive tract even if ulcers have not yet appeared.
Types of Tests for Bacterium
There are mainly four tests that are used to detect this bacterium. These tests are:
• H Pylori antibody test: this is a blood test which aims to examine presence of antibodies that the body’s natural immune system makes in order to fight off the bacteria. If the antibodies are present in the blood, it is the direct indication of an infection.
• H. Pylori antigen test: in this test, the stool of the person is examined to check the presence of any antigens which trigger the H. Pylori antibodies. This test is usually performed as a support test to check the accuracy of the other tests.
• Urea Breath test: this breath test is usually rare and is performed to check for the presence of the bacteria in the stomach.
• Stomach Biopsy: a small sample of tissue from the lining of the stomach is taken. The process of endoscopy is used to obtain the sample. There are also many other different tests that may be done in order to obtain the lining of the stomach.
The tests are recommended when a person complains of frequent acidity, burning and irritation of the lining of stomach and gastritis. If the H pylori infection has already been established, the test is often also done in order to check for the success of the treatment.
Preparation for H pylori blood test
In order to get the H pylori blood tests done, there is no need to make any prior preparations. However, in order to get a stomach biopsy done, you need to fast for at least six hours. During this period, you are not allowed to consume food or water.
If you are taking any antibiotics or proton pump inhibitors, it is best to stop taking these medicines after consultation with your doctor. Other medicines that contain bismuth should also not be taken as all these may interfere with the accuracy of the test results. The results of the blood tests and the breath test are usually available within twenty four hours. However, biopsy results may take some time. A culture test may take up to ten days.
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