Overview of Helicobacter pylori detection methods

Helicobacter pylori (Hp) detection is a key means of diagnosing gastric infection. It is mainly divided intoInvasiveandnon-invasiveTwo major categories. Invasive methods rely on gastroscopy, such as rapid urease test, histological examination, etc.; non-invasive methods include urea breath test, fecal antigen detection and serological testing, among whichUrea breath testIt has become the first choice in clinical practice due to its high accuracy and easy operation. Secondary methods such as PCR technology are mostly used in scientific research. Test selection needs to be comprehensively considered based on patient symptoms, medical conditions, and cost.

Detailed explanation of invasive detection methods

Invasive testing requires obtaining gastric mucosal samples through gastroscopy. Common methods include:Rapid urease test(Using the characteristic of Hp secreting urease, results can be obtained within 30 minutes),Histological staining(Observe bacterial morphology under a microscope, the accuracy is over 95%) andBacterial culture(It takes 3-5 days, but drug sensitivity testing can be done). This type of method is suitable for patients who require gastroscopy evaluation, but it is somewhat invasive and the results are affected by the location of the specimen.

Detailed explanation of non-invasive detection methods

Non-invasive testing is more acceptable to patients.Urea breath test(Divided into C13 and C14) The isotope content in breath is detected after taking labeled urea, with an accuracy of more than 95%, which is an internationally recognized "gold standard".Stool Antigen TestSuitable for children or those who have difficulty with breath testing, but care must be taken in sample preservation. In addition,Serological testingAntibodies can be screened, but cannot differentiate between current infection and past infection, and are mostly used in epidemiological investigations.

Special scenarios and emerging technologies

For special groups such as children and pregnant women, radiation-free C13 breath tests or stool tests are recommended. Used in scientific researchPCR technologyDetection of Hp gene is highly sensitive but expensive. In recent years,molecular probeandbiosensorAs new technologies are gradually applied, rapid home testing may be possible in the future. It should be noted that antibiotics and acid-suppressing drugs may interfere with the results, and you must follow the doctor's advice to stop taking the drugs before testing.

Summary and suggestions

Helicobacter pylori testing needs to be "tailored":Urea breath testIt is suitable for primary screening of most adults; rapid urease test can be performed simultaneously on gastroscopy patients; serological testing is suitable for large-scale screening. A breath test or stool test should be used for review after treatment. When choosing, you need to combine accuracy, convenience and cost (for example, the C14 breath test is cheaper but contains trace amounts of radiation). Standardized testing is the prerequisite for eradication treatment, and it is recommended to be carried out under the guidance of a doctor.

Quote sources:
1. "The Fifth National Consensus Report on the Management of Helicobacter Pylori Infection" (Digestive Disease Branch of Chinese Medical Association)
2. World Gastroenterology Organization (WGO) Clinical Guidelines
3. Manufacturer and product:Shenzhen CNNC Haideway(C13/C14 breath tester),Xiamen Wantai Carey(fecal antigen detection reagent)