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Helicobacter pylori: what is it, who needs the test and what are the indications for it?
Helicobacter pylori is a bacterium that can colonize the human stomach mucosa and become the main cause of chronic diseases of the digestive system. It is widespread throughout the world and, according to medical research, is present in every second person, often remaining unnoticed until serious symptoms appear.
Helicobacter pylori infection occurs mainly in childhood, and the infection can persist in the body for decades without obvious manifestations. That is why it is important to undergo a timely examination, which will help prevent the development of complications. At Medilab Plus, you can take a high-quality PCR analysis of feces to detect Helicobacter pylori DNA - you can read the detailed conditions at the link on the laboratory website.
This test allows you to detect the presence of bacteria without invasive intervention and is one of the most accurate in early diagnosis. More information about the conditions of delivery and registration for the analysis - at the link in the “Analysis” section”.
How dangerous is Helicobacter pylori infection?
Helicobacter pylori is able to survive in the highly acidic environment of the stomach by producing urease, an enzyme that neutralizes acid. Gradually, the bacterium damages the gastric mucosa, provoking inflammation, which over time can develop into:
chronic gastritis
stomach and duodenal ulcer
increased risk of developing stomach cancer
Detection and treatment of Helicobacter pylori is an important step in the prevention of serious diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.
Who is recommended to take a test for Helicobacter pylori?
| Indications for analysis | Who is recommended? |
|---|---|
| Suspicion of gastritis, peptic ulcer disease | Patients with symptoms of stomach diseases |
| Monitoring infection treatment | Those undergoing antibacterial therapy |
| Prevention | People with a high risk of stomach diseases, hereditary predisposition |
How to properly prepare for the analysis
To obtain a reliable PCR test result, it is important to follow certain preparation rules:
| Time to delivery | What needs to be done? |
|---|---|
| 1 month | Stop taking antibiotics |
| 2 weeks | Avoid proton pump inhibitors, antacids, H2 blockers |
| 3 days | Do not use local antiseptics, rectal suppositories, laxatives |
| 3 days | Do not consume foods or medications that can discolor stool (carrots, beets, iron, coal) |
What can affect the result?
Violation of the conditions for collecting feces (ingress of urine, water or foreign impurities)
Treatment with antibacterial drugs (tetracycline, penicillin, macrolides, metronidazole) may lead to false-negative results.
When you should definitely pay attention
Pay attention if you have:
Pain or heartburn in the stomach area
Indigestion, nausea
Frequent recurrences of gastritis or peptic ulcer disease
Family history of stomach disease
Antibacterial therapy against Helicobacter pylori infection is planned.
Why choose the PCR method?
PCR (polymerase chain reaction) is a modern, highly informative technique that allows you to detect even the smallest amount of Helicobacter pylori DNA in a stool sample. Advantages of this method:
Non-invasiveness
High sensitivity and specificity
Ability to monitor treatment effectiveness
No need for endoscopic intervention
What else is worth knowing?
For a comprehensive diagnosis and assessment of the disease, the doctor may also recommend blood tests for antibodies to Helicobacter pylori (IgG, IgA). This allows you to determine not only the presence of the infection, but also the stage of its development.
Helicobacter pylori is a real threat to the health of the gastrointestinal tract, which should not be ignored. Timely PCR examination of feces will help to avoid serious consequences, as well as effectively monitor treatment.
Sign up for an analysis at Medilab Plus — we guarantee accurate results, comfortable conditions, and a professional approach.
