Helicobacter Pylori Tests: Results
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Results
Helicobacter pylori tests are used to detect a Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection in the stomach and upper part of the small intestine (duodenum).
Results from the urea breath test or a stool antigen test are generally available within a few hours. Results from a blood antibody test are usually available within 24 hours. Results from biopsy samples obtained by endoscopy are usually available within 48 hours. Results from a biopsy sample that is cultured can take up to 10 days.
| Normal: | The blood sample does not contain H. pylori antigens. |
|---|---|
| Abnormal: | The blood sample contains H. pylori antigens. |
| Normal: | The breath sample does not contain the tagged hydrocarbon. |
|---|---|
| Abnormal: | The breath sample contains the tagged hydrocarbon. |
| Normal: | The stool sample does not contain H. pylori antigens. This is called a negative test result. However, a negative stool antigen test does not always mean that you do not have an H. pylori infection. |
|---|---|
| Abnormal: | The stool sample contains H. pylori antigens. |
| Normal: | The biopsy sample does not contain H. pylori bacteria. H. pylori bacteria does not grow in a culture of the tissue biopsy samples. See an illustration of a normal stomach as seen during endoscopy |
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| Abnormal: | The biopsy sample contains H. pylori bacteria. H. pylori bacteria grows in a culture of the tissue biopsy samples. See an illustration of gastritis caused by H. pylori as seen during endoscopy |
| Last updated: | January 11, 2008 |
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| Author: | Monica Rhodes |
| Reviewed By: | Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine, Andrew H. Soll, MD - Gastroenterology |
| Editors: | Kathleen M. Ariss, MS, Pat Truman, MATC |
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