H. pylori antigen stool test

What is Helicobacter pylori?

Helicobacter pylori is a type of bacteria recognized as a primary cause of peptic ulcers, which are open sores that develop on the inner lining of the esophagus, stomach, or small intestine. Testing for H. pylori is employed to identify infections within the digestive tract, which are often responsible for the manifestation of symptoms and the development of ulcers.

Infections with H. pylori in the digestive tract are widespread, affecting potentially half of the global population. Remarkably, many individuals infected with H. pylori remain asymptomatic. Nonetheless, H. pylori infection escalates the risk of developing ulcers, referred to as peptic ulcer disease, as well as persistent stomach inflammation known as gastritis. In more severe cases, it may even contribute to the onset of gastric (stomach) cancer. The presence of these bacteria reduces the stomach's capacity to produce protective mucus, rendering it vulnerable to harm from digestive acids and, consequently, the formation of peptic ulcers.

Various H. pylori testing methods are available, including stool antigen tests and breath tests, some of which are less intrusive than others.

How is the test used? What kinds of tests are available?

H. pylori testing serves the purpose of identifying the presence of the bacteria in the digestive tract, diagnosing the infection, and assessing the effectiveness of treatment in eradicating the infection.

Various methods are available for conducting H. pylori testing. The following tables provide an overview of these tests:

_1-Without Endoscopy:_

Stool/fecal antigen test

Urea breath test

_2-With Endoscopy: tissue biopsy sample obtained; good tests but ordered less often because invasive_

Histology

Rapid urease testing

Culture

PCR (polymerase chain reaction)

When is the test recommended?

Testing for H. pylori is typically recommended when you experience abdominal discomfort and exhibit symptoms suggestive of an ulcer. These symptoms may include:

1. Recurring abdominal pain.
2. Unexplained weight loss.
3. Indigestion.
4. A sensation of fullness or bloating.
5. Nausea.
6. Frequent belching.

In more severe cases, individuals may exhibit alarming signs and symptoms necessitating immediate medical attention. These can include sudden, intense, and persistent stomach pain, bloody or black stools, vomit with blood, or a coffee-ground-like appearance.

Additionally, H. pylori testing may be ordered approximately 4 to 6 weeks after the completion of prescribed antibiotics to confirm the eradication of the infection. Nevertheless, not all individuals require a follow-up test in this scenario.

What does the test result show?

A positive result from an H. pylori stool antigen, breath test, or biopsy suggests that your symptoms are probably caused by a peptic ulcer resulting from this bacterial infection. In such cases, a treatment plan involving a combination of antibiotics and other medications will be prescribed to eliminate the bacteria, alleviate pain, and promote ulcer healing.

On the other hand, a negative test result indicates that it's less likely for you to have an H. pylori infection, and your symptoms may stem from another underlying cause. Nonetheless, if your symptoms persist, further testing, including the more invasive tissue biopsy, may be recommended to definitively rule out an infection as the cause.

What is the treatment of peptic ulcer caused by H. pylori?

Typically, treatment consists of a combination of antibiotics along with medications aimed at decreasing stomach acid production, such as proton pump inhibitors and histamine receptor blockers. Additionally, a bismuth preparation, like Pepto-Bismol, may be part of the regimen and should be taken for several weeks.

Do all people with H. pylori get ulcers?

No, it's important to note that many individuals may show signs of H. pylori infection without experiencing symptoms of peptic ulcers. The precise reasons why some people with H. pylori infections develop peptic ulcers while others do not remain unclear at this time.

What is the reason of H.Pylori infection?

It is believed that the bacteria are transmitted through the consumption of food or water that has been contaminated with human feces, or potentially through direct contact with the stool, vomit, or saliva of an infected individual. The most common mode of transmission appears to be exposure to family members who are infected with H. pylori.

What is the reason for treatment failure for H.Pylori infection?

Most patients who successfully complete the combination antibiotic therapy are able to eliminate these bacteria from their digestive tract. However, there is a possibility of antibiotic resistance developing in some cases, which means that the bacteria can continue to multiply even with the appropriate therapy. Also, Treatment does not provide immunity, so there is always the potential for reinfection.