There are several tests available for the Helicobacter Pylori infection
. Each of these tests have their own advantages as well as demerits which are based on factors such as convenience to the patients and the cost of the Helicobacter Pylori test. Let's take a look at some of the types of tests for H pylori.
Blood Test
The blood sample of the infected individual is analyzed for traces of the antibodies to Helicobacter Pylori. The blood test is conducted to check the individual's reaction to the infection rather than treating H. Pylori itself. The blood test is only useful as a preliminary test. It is of no use for re-testing. This is because the level of the antibodies to Helicobacter Pylori bacteria in the bloodstream may remain high for months, even after the infection has been treated.
Urea Breath Test
This test helps to determine the presence of the H. Pylori bacteria in the patient's stomach. The urea breath test is preferred by many people as it is non evasive as well as easy to perform. However, the results of this type of test may not be quite accurate incase of a very low level of the infection. The urea breath test can prove to be quite expensive, especially if the individual does not posses a medical insurance coverage. The cost of the test can be as high as $1000 without an insurance coverage.
Biopsy
A biopsy of the stomach tissue is taken for determining the presence of the h. pylori bacteria. The good thing about this test is that it can help to analyze the condition of the stomach and check for the presence of ulcers or gastritis. In addition, a biopsy can also be useful to detect a hiatus hernia. However, undergoing the test can be quite painful and unpleasant for the patients. It also requires a visit to the clinic. Most clinics can charge as much as $ 5000 for conducting a biopsy.
Stool Test
The stool test or stool antigen test is one of the best tests for the detection of the h. pylori infection. It is also the most accurate Helicobacter Pylori test. However, several samples of stool are required for analysis to increase the chances of detecting the infection. A stool test is also very convenient and can be quickly executed.
These are some of the important tests available for the detection of the H. Pylori bacteria. All of these tests however, only focus on detecting the presence of the Helicobacter Pylori bacteria.