Helicobacter pylori Antigen, Rapid Stool Test
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About Helicobacter pylori Antigen, Rapid Stool Test
The Helicobacter pylori stool antigen test (SAT) is a rapid, non-invasive laboratory test designed to identify ongoing H.pylori infection by detecting its antigens in human feces.
H.pylori antigen is a protein part of the bacterium that elicits an immune response in the gut while being constantly shed in the human faeces.
Spread through contaminated food and water, H. pylori bacteria habitats the stomach, causing an often-asymptomatic gastrointestinal tract infection. However, its presence could sometimes cause gastritis, peptic ulcers (sores formed in the stomach and small intestine), or even stomach cancer if left untreated.
What is the H. pylori Antigen Test Used For?
H. pylori test is mainly performed:
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To diagnose H.pylori infection in patients with symptoms of peptic ulcer or gastritis
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To check if the treatment has eradicated H.pylori
Symptoms of H. pylori Infection(Gastritis / Ulcer)
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Chronic pain and burning sensation in the stomach
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Feeling of fullness or swelling in the belly
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Nausea, Vomiting and indigestion
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Loss of Appetite
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Unexplained weight loss
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Frequent belching (burping)
Test preparation
Before taking the H.pylori antigen test, you may be advised not to take laxatives, antacids or anti-diarrheal medication for at least two weeks to a month. However, ensure that your doctor knows all the medicines you currently take.
Interpretation of the Test Results
An overview of the results of the Stool Antigen test is as follows:
In pre-treatment phase
Positive results (Abnormal)
It suggests you have H. pylori infection. Your doctor probably will prescribe one or more antibiotics to treat the infection.
Negative results (Normal)
This result indicates you don't have H. pylori infection. Your doctor will order more tests to determine the cause of your symptoms.
In post-treatment phase
Positive result
It means treatment failure against the infection.
Negative Result
This result indicates that you have been successfully treated for H. pylori infection.
FAQs on Helicobacter pylori Antigen, Rapid Stool Test
The process of detecting H. pylori antigen in a stool sample typically requires around 2-3 hours to generate results. Following the outcome of the test, it's essential to discuss the appropriate next steps with your doctor.
At the laboratory, a technician will provide you with a small vial to collect stool. Then chemicals and a color developer are added. The appearance of blue color indicates the presence of H. pylori antigens.
There is no known risk of having stool tests.
Ingestion of antibiotics, laxatives, Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), and bismuth up to 2 weeks before stool antigen testing can cause false negative results due to H. pylori bacteria inhibition. In such a scenario, a fresh sample must be collected after 14 days of stopping the medication.
Helicobacter pylori Antigen, Rapid Stool Test
