FAQs about Urea Breath Test

Posted: Jul 21, 2010 |Comments: 0 | Views: 153 |

Introduction:

The urea breath test is a rapid diagnostic procedure that is carried out to diagnose or identify the presence of the Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) bacterium in the stomach. Due to its non-invasive nature, it is a preferred diagnostic test recommended by leading society guidelines. It helps in detecting the presence of H. pylori both before and after treatment.

What is the principle behind the Urea Breath Test?

This test is primarily based on the ability of the H. pylori bacteria to break up the bond between the urea molecule and a marked carbon dioxide "tail" connected to it. The released carbon dioxide ends up in the breath with its concentrations measured.

How is this test performed?

For this test, a nurse or technician asks the patient to swallow a capsule containing urea. This capsule is made from an isotope of carbon. If the H. pylori bacteria is present in the stomach, the urea gets broken up and converted to carbon dioxide, which is then absorbed across the stomach lining and in the blood. It then travels with the blood to the lungs from where it is released in the breath. The technician then collects a few samples of exhaled breath to measure the amount of isotopic carbon in it.

How are results interpreted?

The presence of isotopic carbon in the exhaled breath indicates the presence of H. pylori bacteria in the stomach. The absence of isotope indicates the absence of H. pylori. After the H. pylori infection is successfully treated by using certain antibiotics, the test result changes from positive (isotope present) to negative (isotope absent).

Is there any complication or risk involved in the Breath Urea test?

No. There are no known risks or complications of this test.

Can this test be preformed on a pregnant woman?

No. In case of a pregnant woman, the presence or absence of the H. pylori bacteria can be determined by testing a stool sample. Urea breath test is performed in two ways. The first method involves a very small dose of urea, marked with a radioactive isotope of carbon whereas the second method involves the use of urea, marked with a non-radioactive isotope of carbon. The test involving the radioactive isotope is not recommended for pregnant women.

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    Article Tags:

    urea breath test

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    helicobacter pylori

    Urea breath test is a diagnostic procedure which is done to identify the existence of a bacterium called Helicobacter pylori in the stomach. This is a spiral bacterium which is involved in the diseases like peptic ulcer, gastritis and gastric ulcer. This kind of bacteria can convert urea into ammonia and this quality is used in this test. Let us see how it works.

    By: Jenny Halimil Health> Diseases and Conditionsl Sep 22, 2010 lViews: 126

    Urea breath test is a quick diagnostic procedure used to identify the presence of Helicobacter Pylori bacteria infections. The helicobacter pylori bacteria converts urea to ammonia and by this way diseases like gastric ulcer, gastritis, peptic ulcer and Helicobacter pylori infection are caused.

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