What is the purpose of this test?
Order this Helicobacter pylori EIA Stool Test Add-On - Genova Test Kit, which can assist in detecting an infection caused by Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), a bacteria that can lead to a peptic ulcer - a sore on the lining of the stomach, small intestine, or esophagus. It can also help determine if treatment has successfully eradicated the infection.
Individuals should note that this test kit is only offered as an add-on test for the following Genova Diagnostics test kits:
- Gastrointestinal (GI) Effects Comprehensive Stool Profile 1-Day Test Kit (GD2200)
- Gastrointestinal (GI) Effects Comprehensive Stool Profile 3-Day Test Kit (GD2201)
- Gastrointestinal (GI) Effects Microbial Ecology Stool Profile (GD2205)
- Gut Pathogen Profile (GD2207)
- Gastrointestinal (GI) Effects Fundamentals Stool Profile (GD2209)
Don't hesitate to contact Walk-In Lab's Customer Service at 1-800-539-6119 if you are interested in this add-on test, as additional charges will be applied.
What is H. pylori?
Were you aware that Helicobacter pylori, a type of bacteria, can lead to the development of peptic ulcers? These ulcers are sores that develop on the esophagus lining, stomach, or small intestine. If you're experiencing symptoms or have ulcers, getting tested for H. pylori is essential to determine if the bacteria is the cause of your condition. Testing for H. pylori can help diagnose the underlying issue and aid in finding the appropriate treatment.
It's quite common for people to have H. pylori infections in their digestive tract, with almost half of the world's population being affected. Even though most people infected with H. pylori don't experience any symptoms, the infection can increase the chances of developing ulcers (peptic ulcer disease), chronic inflammation in the stomach (gastritis), and stomach cancer. These bacteria reduce the stomach's capacity to produce mucus, which makes the gut vulnerable to damage caused by digestive acid and peptic ulcers.
When should I order a Helicobacter pylori EIA Stool Test Add-On - Genova Test Kit?
Individuals may order this add-on test if they have experienced symptoms related to an H. pylori infection. As per the American College of Gastroenterology, it is recommended to test for H. pylori infection in certain cases, such as:
- Active PUD.
- A history of PUD.
- Low-grade mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma.
- Endoscopic early gastric cancer.
- Long-term aspirin/NSAID treatment, those with unexplained iron deficiency anemia, and those with ITP.
If a patient has symptoms typical of GERD but no history of PUD, they do not need to be tested for H. pylori. However, if they are tested and found to be infected, treatment should be provided.
