Helicobacter pylori (HP) is a bacterial organism that resides in the mucus layer protecting the lining of the stomach. This bacterium can cause damage to the stomach or duodenum by releasing various toxins, increasing the risk of developing conditions such as inflammation, duodenal ulcers, and stomach cancer. The HP breath test is a straightforward diagnostic test used to identify the presence of HP in an individual.
There are two types of HP breath tests: the standard HP breath test and the HP C13 test. The standard HP breath test involves using radioactive material, while the HP C13 test does not utilize any radioactive substances. The HP C13 test is suitable for children over three years of age and pregnant women. Patients with gastrointestinal symptoms like flatulence, abdominal pain, and heartburn should undergo this test to detect HP infection. Patients with a history of stomach cancer, duodenal ulcers, or other stomach-related conditions may also take this test to evaluate treatment effectiveness following eradication therapy.
To conduct an HP breath test, patients are first required to exhale into a collection bag to measure carbon dioxide in their breath. Subsequently, they ingest urea combined with a C13 isotopic carbon molecule. After waiting for some time, they breathe into the bag again for another carbon dioxide measurement. The sample is analyzed on-site or sent to a laboratory for analysis before results become available on the same day of testing. A positive result indicates the presence of HP bacteria in their stomachs, which may prompt doctors to prescribe antibiotics or medications as per guidelines from the Ministry of Health’s treatment protocols.
Although non-invasive and safe with high accuracy rates, an HP breath test does not provide an internal view of patients’ upper gastrointestinal tract if further evaluation is required after diagnosis. If this happens, doctors may recommend an esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) or upper gastrointestinal series (UGS) to examine closely these areas.
Early detection through this non-invasive method allows timely management and treatment recommendations by healthcare providers for individuals who exhibit gastrointestinal symptoms related to Helicobacter pylori infection.
In conclusion, Helicobacter pylori (HP) is a type of bacterial organism that can cause damage to various parts of the digestive system if left untreated due to its ability to secrete various harmful chemicals into it. The most effective way to diagnose this condition is through blood tests that check for specific markers produced by these bacteria or through biopsy samples taken during EGD procedures.
However, for those seeking a quicker diagnosis without going through invasive procedures like EGDs or UGSs, they can opt for an HP breath test instead since it provides accurate results within minutes with minimal discomfort compared to endoscopies.
It’s important for individuals exhibiting symptoms related to gastrointestinal disorders caused by Helicobacter pylori infection
