Helicobacter Test (13c-Urea)

Helicobacter Test is employed primarily for the non‑invasive detection of Helicobacter pylori infection using the 13C‑urea breath test method.

• Detects active H. pylori infection in adults presenting with dyspeptic symptoms.
• Supports diagnosis of peptic ulcer disease related to H. pylori.
• Assists in confirming bacterial eradication after a prescribed treatment course.
• Provides an alternative to invasive endoscopic biopsy for H. pylori screening.
• Can be used in epidemiological studies to assess prevalence of infection.

The 13C‑urea breath test is generally well tolerated, and adverse effects are uncommon.

Common

• Mild taste disturbance after ingesting the urea solution.
• Transient nausea or mild abdominal discomfort.
• Brief headache during or after the test.
• Slight diarrhea that resolves without intervention.
• Mild flatulence.

Serious

• Allergic reaction to urea, presenting as rash or itching.
• Severe nausea or vomiting requiring medical attention.
• Anaphylaxis, a rare but life‑threatening systemic reaction.
• Significant respiratory distress or bronchospasm.
• Persistent, severe abdominal pain.

When using Helicobacter Test, certain precautions should be observed to ensure accurate results and patient safety.

• Avoid antibiotics, bismuth compounds, or proton‑pump inhibitors for at least two weeks before testing.
• Do not consume urea‑containing foods or products (e.g., dairy, red meat) on the test day.
• Ensure the patient fasts for at least two hours prior to ingesting the test solution.
• Verify that the patient has no known hypersensitivity to urea.
• Pregnant or lactating women should discuss testing with a healthcare professional before proceeding.
• Children below the age recommended by the manufacturer may require alternative diagnostic methods.

Certain medications and substances can interfere with the 13C‑urea breath test or increase the risk of adverse reactions.

Avoid

• Antibiotics such as clarithromycin, amoxicillin, or metronidazole within two weeks of testing.
• Proton‑pump inhibitors (e.g., omeprazole, esomeprazole) within two weeks.
• Bismuth‑containing compounds within four weeks.
• H2‑receptor antagonists (e.g., ranitidine, famotidine) within one week.

Use with caution

• Non‑steroidal anti‑inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may cause mild gastrointestinal symptoms that could affect test interpretation.
• Antacids taken on the day of testing may alter gastric pH and influence results.
• Herbal supplements containing urea or similar compounds should be disclosed to the testing provider.