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Non-invasive techniques for the diagnosis of Helicobacter pylori infection.
L. Gatta, C. Ricci, A. Tampieri, D. Vaira
Clin. Microbiol. Infect. 2003 Jun;9(6):489-96.
PubMed: 12848723
Abstract
Helicobacter pylori infection can be diagnosed by invasive techniques requiring endoscopy and biopsy (histologic examination, culture, polymerase chain reaction), and non-invasive techniques (serology, urea breath test, urine or blood, detection of H. pylori antigen in stool specimen). However, recent studies have demonstrated that a strategy of 'testing and treating' for H. pylori in uninvestigated, young (<50 years), dyspeptic patients in primary care is safe and reduces the need for endoscopy. Indeed, a number of clinical guidelines recommend non-invasive testing in dyspeptic patients followed by treatment of H. pylori in primary care based on clinical and economic analyses. Several non-invasive tests are currently available on the market. The choice depends on the clinical circumstances, the likelihood ratio of positive and negative tests, the cost-effectiveness of the testing strategy, and, finally, the availability of the tests. Nevertheless, two non-invasive tests are commonly used: the urea breath test, and the stool antigen test.
Associated compounds:
Compound Name
with link to compound page |
Structure | Number of references |
---|---|---|
Urea | 1130 |