Molecular Diagnostics

Helicobacter pylori, Urea Breath Test

This test detects H. pylori bacteria in human breath sample.

Clinical Significance

Helicobacter pylori is a gram-negative microaerophilic curved bacillus with an affinity for human gastric mucosa. H. pylori has been identified as an important pathogen in the upper GI tract. The casual relationship between H. pylori and chronic active gastritis, duodenal ulcers, and gastric ulcers has been well documented. BreathTek™ UBiT® for H. pylori is a non-invasive, non radioactive method for detecting urease activity associated with H. pylori infection. This test offers 95.2% sensitivity and 89.7% specificity compared with endoscopic methods.

Patient Preparation

Patient should fast one hour before collection of baseline breath sample. Pranactin®-Citric contains a small amount of aspartame sweetener. Test may not be suitable for patients with phenylketonuria whose dietary phenylalanine should be restricted.

Use of antimicrobials, proton pump inhibitors, or bismuth preparations within two weeks prior to administering the BreathTek™ UBT may cause a false negative result. However, a positive result is still valid.

Certified Analysis