Helicobacter pylori Antigen - Stool – ES074
🔬 Gold Standard Active Infection TestReport: Next day Evening (Except Sunday)
Sample Type: Stool
Test Code: ES074
The H. pylori Stool Antigen Test is a highly accurate, non-invasive test that directly detects the presence of H. pylori bacteria in the digestive tract. It works by identifying specific proteins (antigens) from the surface of the bacteria in a stool sample.
✔ A gold standard method for diagnosing a current, active H. pylori infection.
✔ The recommended test for confirming that treatment has successfully eradicated the infection ("test-of-cure").
✔ More specific for active infection than blood antibody tests.
✔ Requires stopping certain medications before the test.
The Direct Approach: Detecting the Bacteria Itself
Unlike blood tests that measure your body's *immune response* (antibodies) to H. pylori, the Stool Antigen Test looks for direct evidence of the bacteria. "Antigens" are proteins found on the surface of the H. pylori bacterium. If these proteins are detected in your stool, it is definitive proof that the bacteria are currently alive and active in your stomach and intestines. This direct detection is what makes the test so accurate for diagnosing a current infection.
The Gold Standard for Two Key Scenarios
This test is highly recommended by gastroenterologists in two main situations:
- Initial Diagnosis: It is one of the most reliable non-invasive methods to confirm that a patient's symptoms (like gastritis or ulcers) are caused by an active H. pylori infection.
- Test-of-Cure: This is a critical role. After a patient completes a course of antibiotics to treat H. pylori, it's essential to confirm that the bacteria have been completely eradicated. Blood antibody tests (like IgG) are useless for this, as they can remain positive for years. The Stool Antigen test will become negative after a successful cure, providing a clear and reliable confirmation that the treatment worked.
Important Preparation
For an accurate result, it is crucial to stop taking certain medications before the test, as they can suppress the bacteria and cause a false-negative result. You must consult your doctor, but general guidelines are:
- Stop taking **Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs)** like Omeprazole, Pantoprazole, etc., for at least **2 weeks** before the test.
- Stop taking **antibiotics** and **bismuth preparations** for at least **4 weeks** before the test.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
It is considered a gold standard because it directly detects the presence of the H. pylori bacteria (its antigens), which confirms a current, active infection with high accuracy. It is superior to blood antibody tests for this purpose.
A blood test (IgG/IgA) detects your body's immune response (antibodies) to the bacteria, which can remain positive even after the infection is gone. This stool test detects the bacteria itself, so it's only positive if you have an active infection.
Yes, this is one of its primary uses. It is the recommended non-invasive "test-of-cure." It should be performed at least 4 weeks after you finish your antibiotic treatment to confirm the bacteria have been successfully eradicated.
Yes, it is very important. You should stop taking Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) for at least 2 weeks and antibiotics for at least 4 weeks before the test, after consulting your doctor. These medications can suppress the bacteria and lead to a false-negative result.