Helicobacter pylori bacteria can infect the stomach lining. In the long term, the infection leads to inflammation of the stomach or intestinal mucosa, such as gastritis. Gastric ulcers are also possible.
In combination with a meat-rich diet, a Helicobacter pylori infection can increase the risk of stomach cancer fivefold, according to studies.
The Helicobacter test can easily detect whether the stomach lining is infected with Helicobacter pylori bacteria. Until a few years ago, this was only possible using a tissue sample taken during a gastroscopy.
An analysis of the patient's breath is sufficient for a Helicobacter test. The result is very reliable. If the test result is positive, the doctor can initiate drug therapy to reduce 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 for unclear stomach complaints.
Helicobacter infestation is the most common bacterial infection in humans worldwide, which is characterized by
diarrhea. The pathogen is transmitted through saliva, infected food or pets.
Anatomy of the stomach and the Helicobacter pylori bacterium© bilderzwerg / Fotolia
In the Helicobacter breath test, doctors make use of a low dose of radioactive radiation. The dose is lower than that of an X-ray and is therefore considered harmless.
The urea labeled with radioactive carbon (C14) enters the test person's body via a drinkable test liquid or a capsule to be swallowed.
Helicobacter pylori is now able to break down the urea enzymatically. If an infection is present, the carbon dioxide formed as a cleavage product, which is also radioactively labeled, can be detected in the exhaled air after around ten minutes.