Helicobacter pylori are bacteria that can cause infections in the stomach lining. In such cases, ulcers and inflammation may develop. The Helicobacter test is a simple procedure to detect an infection of the stomach lining caused by the pathogen Helicobacter pylori.
Here you will find further information as well as doctors who perform the Helicobacter test.
Helicobacter pylori bacteria can infect the stomach lining. Over time, the infection can lead to inflammation of the stomach or intestinal lining, such as gastritis. Stomach ulcers are also possible.
According to studies, when combined with a meat-rich diet, a Helicobacter pylori infection can increase the risk of stomach cancer fivefold.
The Helicobacter test can easily determine whether the stomach lining is infected with Helicobacter pylori bacteria. Until a few years ago, this was only possible by taking a tissue sample during a gastroscopy.
For a Helicobacter test, an analysis of the patient’s breath is sufficient. The result is very reliable. If the test result is positive, the doctor can initiate drug therapy to treat the infection.
Successful treatment of the infection reduces the risk of developing stomach cancer.
The Helicobacter test is used as part of stomach cancer screening and when stomach symptoms are unclear.
Helicobacter infection is the most common bacterial infection in humans worldwide, characterized by
. The pathogen is transmitted through saliva, contaminated food, or pets.
Anatomy of the stomach and the Helicobacter pylori bacterium © bilderzwerg / Fotolia
In the Helicobacter breath test, doctors use a small dose of radioactive radiation. The dose is lower than that of an X-ray and is therefore considered safe.
Urea labeled with radioactive carbon (C14) enters the patient’s body via a drinkable test solution or a capsule to be swallowed.
Helicobacter pylori is then able to break down the urea enzymatically. If an infection is present, the carbon dioxide—which is also radioactively labeled and formed as a breakdown product—can be detected in the exhaled air after about ten minutes.
Every physician listed in the Leading Medicine Guide has attained the highest level of training and certification within their respective medical specialty society. Furthermore, we contacted this physician based, among other factors, on their case volume (surgeries, treatments, and therapies), which we determined by cross-referencing various publicly available sources. Following discussions with the selected physicians and the directors of the medical facilities, as well as a subsequent internal review, they were admitted to the Leading Medicine Guide.
The quality assurance of the Leading Medicine Guide is further ensured by 8 admission criteria. Each member must meet at least 6 of them:
