HELICOBACTER PYLORI - IGG ANTIBODY TEST
(Flat ₹201 OFF - Sanovra Lab)
Report Time: Next Day 4:30 PM | Sample: Blood (Serum) | Days: Except Sunday
Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a common bacteria that attacks the stomach lining and is the leading cause of stomach ulcers and chronic gastritis. The H. pylori IgG Antibody Test is a simple blood test that checks your immune system's long-term memory.
This test specifically detects IgG antibodies, which are produced by the body after you have been exposed to the bacteria. It is highly effective as an initial screening tool to answer one basic question: Has this patient ever had H. pylori?
What does IgG Mean?
When bacteria enter your body, your immune system fights back by creating antibodies. IgG (Immunoglobulin G) is the memory antibody.
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✔It takes a few weeks after the initial infection for IgG to appear in your blood.
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✔Once it is there, it acts as a long-term record, proving that you encountered the bacteria.
When is this Test Most Useful?
Doctors typically order this test for:
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➤Initial Diagnosis: For a patient experiencing severe indigestion, heartburn, or ulcer symptoms who has never been treated for H. pylori before.
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➤Epidemiological Screening: To check populations for exposure rates to the bacteria.
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➤Ruling Out: If the IgG test is negative, the doctor can confidently rule out H. pylori and look for other causes of stomach pain (like stress or NSAID painkillers).
The Big Limitation: The Test of Cure Trap
Why? Because IgG antibodies remain in the blood for months, or even years, after the bacteria have been completely killed. A positive IgG test today could just mean you had the bacteria 5 years ago.
To check for an active infection or Proof of Cure, doctors use the H. pylori Stool Antigen Test or Urea Breath Test instead.
Interpreting Your Results
| Result | Interpretation |
|---|---|
| Positive (Elevated) | Past or Present Exposure. You have been infected with H. pylori at some point in your life. If you have never been treated, it strongly suggests a current infection causing your symptoms. |
| Negative (Low) | No Exposure. You have likely never been infected. Your stomach symptoms are due to another cause. |
| Equivocal (Borderline) | Inconclusive. It may be the very early stages of a new infection. Repeat testing in 2-4 weeks is advised. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
No, fasting is not required. You can provide a blood sample at any time of the day.
No. This is a major advantage of the blood test. Medications like Omeprazole or Pantoprazole can interfere with Stool or Breath tests, but they do not affect the antibodies in your blood.
Not necessarily. Many people carry H. pylori without ever developing an ulcer. A positive result just confirms the bacteria is (or was) present. Your doctor will decide if treatment is needed based on your symptoms.
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Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Laboratory results should always be interpreted by a qualified Gastroenterologist.