Review article: non-invasive methods for the diagnosis of Helicobacter pylori infection

Ital J Gastroenterol Hepatol. 1999 Jun-Jul;31(5):408-15.

Abstract

Non-invasive tests for the diagnosis of Helicobacter pylori infection are widely used in clinical practice and the management of patients with gastrointestinal disease. The serology and 13C-urea breath test are widely available, whereas salivary and faecal assay are still being developed. The non-invasive tests represent notable savings for the patient both in terms of money and discomfort. Whilst serology is the most widespread test its use is not advised in post-treatment follow-up. The 13C-urea breath test is a simple, safe and highly accurate method ideal to evaluate, in the short-term follow-up, Helicobacter pylori eradication after treatment.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Breath Tests
  • Carbon Isotopes
  • Carbon Radioisotopes
  • Feces / microbiology
  • Helicobacter Infections / diagnosis*
  • Helicobacter pylori* / immunology
  • Helicobacter pylori* / isolation & purification
  • Humans
  • Immunoglobulin G / analysis
  • Saliva / immunology
  • Serologic Tests / methods
  • Urea / analysis

Substances

  • Carbon Isotopes
  • Carbon Radioisotopes
  • Immunoglobulin G
  • Urea