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Helicobacter pylori ( H. Pylori) Antigen Stool Test

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The Helicobacter pylori ( H. Pylori) Antigen Stool Test checks for harmful bacteria in the stomach that can cause problems like ulcers and stomach pain, helping to find and treat the infection early.

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What is the purpose of this test?

The Helicobacter pylori (H. Pylori) Antigen Stool Test is designed to detect the presence of H. pylori bacteria in the digestive system. H. pylori is a type of bacteria that can infect the stomach lining and is known to cause various gastrointestinal issues, including gastritis, peptic ulcers, and even stomach cancer. By identifying H. pylori infections early, this test helps healthcare providers determine the right treatment to eradicate the bacteria and alleviate symptoms.

The test works by analyzing a stool sample for antigens, which are substances produced by H. pylori when it infects the stomach. Detecting these antigens can confirm an active infection and guide further testing or treatment options. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial, as untreated H. pylori infections can lead to more serious health problems over time.

Who should get this test?

Individuals experiencing persistent stomach pain or discomfort
Those with symptoms of gastritis, such as nausea or bloating
People with a history of peptic ulcers
Patients experiencing unexplained weight loss or appetite changes
Individuals with a family history of stomach cancer or H. pylori infections

When should I order the Helicobacter pylori (H. Pylori) Antigen Stool Test?

You should consider ordering the Helicobacter pylori Antigen Stool Test if you have symptoms that suggest an H. pylori infection. Symptoms to consider:

Frequent stomach pain or discomfort
Nausea or vomiting
Bloating or excessive burping
Loss of appetite or unexplained weight loss
Indigestion or heartburn that does not go away
Dark, tarry stools or blood in the stool

If you experience any of these symptoms, this test can help determine if an H. pylori infection is the cause, leading to appropriate treatment and relief.

LC Sample Report QD Sample Report

Test Code(s):

180764, 34838

Also Known As:

Campylobacter pylori; Campylobacter From Stomach; Culture Helicobacter pylori; HpSA; H. pylori Antigen; H. pylori Stool Antigen; Helicobacter pylori

Specimen:

Stool

Preparation:

You must take your lab order to the lab to obtain a proper specimen container before collection. No special preparation required.

Test Results:

2-3 days. May take longer based on weather, holiday or lab delays.

Details:

Certain medications, including antibiotics, proton pump inhibitors (medicines that reduce stomach acid), and bismuth preparations (such as Pepto-Bismol), can suppress H. pylori and may lead to a false-negative test result. If you've taken these within two weeks before an H. pylori stool test, a negative result may not be reliable, and retesting two weeks after discontinuation is recommended. However, a positive result during this time is generally accurate.

The Helicobacter Pylori (H. pylori) Urea Breath Test detects H. pylori bacteria in the stomach by measuring the carbon dioxide in a patient's breath after they consume a urea solution.

Gastrin Blood Test

The Gastrin Blood Test is used to detect an overproduction of gastrin, to help diagnose Zollinger-Ellison syndrome and G-cell hyperplasia, and to monitor for recurrence of a gastrin-producing tumor (gastrinoma).