H. pylori
From Health Facts
Latest Edit: Hector 2014-03-24 (EDT)
| See Also | Lab Tests |
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This test is used to diagnose an infection with Helicobacter pylori, which can cause peptic ulcers. An H. pylori test may be ordered when a patient presents with symptoms of an ulcer, such as gastrointestinal pain, unexplained weight loss, and nausea or vomiting.[1], [2]
Discussion
- H. pylori is a bacteria known to be a major cause of peptic ulcer disease, which acts by decreasing the stomach's ability to produce mucus, thereby making it prone to acid damage and peptic ulcers.
- It is also associated with gastric (stomach) cancer
- The test may be conducted from a stool sample or a blood sample.
Patient Preparation
- Factors which can cause increased levels:
- None noted.
- Factors which can cause decreased levels:
- Drugs: Antacids
Clinical Implications
| Article | Helicobacter pylori: Conventional and complementary treatments for eradication and optimal management, IHP, Jun/July 2009 |
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| Article | Kefir Beats Yogurt in H. pylori Treatment , 2011 May Natural Medicine [1] |
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- Results typically indicate a positive or negative test result.
- Blood tests indicates presence of H.pylori either presently or in the past.
- Breath test indicates current presence of an H. pylori infecion.
Associated Tests
- CBC
- Other indicated tests may include a tissue biopsy of the stomach lining.
References
- ↑ Pagana Kathleen D, Pagana Timothy J (2006) Mosby's Manual of Diagnostic and Laboratory Tests, Mosby.
- ↑ Weatherby Dicken, Ferguson Scott (2002) Blood Chemistry and CBC Analysis: Clinical Laboratory Testing from a Functional Perspective, Bear Mountain.
