Introduction

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a type of bacteria that infects the stomach lining and is closely linked to the development of peptic ulcers and some forms of gastric cancer. The H. pylori breath test is a non-invasive and accurate method used to diagnose the presence of these bacteria. This article provides a detailed overview of the H. pylori breath test, its application, and solutions from the HYSEN company.

Helicobacter Pylori

Helicobacter pylori is a spiral-shaped bacterium that thrives in the acidic environment of the stomach. Infection is commonly acquired during childhood and may persist for life if untreated. Approximately 50% of the world's population is estimated to be infected with H. pylori, although many are asymptomatic.

The H. pylori Breath Test

Principle of the Test

The H. pylori breath test is based on the ability of the bacteria to break down urea. During the test, the patient ingests a capsule containing urea labeled with a non-radioactive isotope, usually carbon-13 or carbon-14. If H. pylori is present, the enzyme urease, produced by the bacteria, breaks down the urea into carbon dioxide and ammonia. The carbon dioxide is absorbed into the bloodstream and exhaled, where it can be measured in the breath.

Test Procedure

1. The patient is required to fast for several hours before the test.
2. A baseline breath sample is collected, usually by blowing into a balloon.
3. The patient consumes the urea capsule with a glass of water.
4. After a predetermined period, typically 15-30 minutes, another breath sample is collected.
5. The breath samples are analyzed for the presence of labeled carbon dioxide.

Accuracy and Sensitivity

The H. pylori breath test demonstrates high accuracy with sensitivity and specificity often exceeding 90%. False negatives can occur if the patient has recently used antibiotics or proton pump inhibitors. It is advisable to avoid antibiotics for four weeks and proton pump inhibitors for two weeks before the test.

Advantages

• Non-invasive and painless.
• No significant side effects.
• High accuracy and reliability.

HYSEN Company Solutions

HYSEN offers state-of-the-art diagnostic solutions for detecting H. pylori infection. Their product line includes advanced breath test devices designed for rapid analysis and precise measurement of isotopic carbon dioxide in exhaled breath.

Product Features

• Automated systems with user-friendly interfaces.
• Portable designs suitable for clinical and remote settings.
• High throughput capability for processing multiple samples.

Performance Metrics

HYSEN's devices are calibrated for maximum accuracy, offering sensitivity and specificity rates comparable to standard laboratory equipment. Their breath test systems are designed to reduce the margin of error, ensuring reliable detection of H. pylori.

References

• Helicobacter Pylori and Peptic Ulcers, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.
• Urea breath test for detecting Helicobacter pylori, Clinical Microbiology Reviews.
• Product Information, HYSEN Company, Diagnostic Solutions for H. pylori Detection.