Helicobacter pylori antibodies - serum
Last updated: Tuesday, 23, March, 2004
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| Item | Process |
|---|---|
| Specimen | 5 mL blood in plain tube. |
| Method | Immunoassay. |
| Application | Investigation of peptic ulcers, gastritis. |
| Interpretation | A positive result does not differentiate past or present infection with Helicobacter pylori. This test is less sensitive than biopsy detection (histology, urease test) and has only a limited place. Antibodies are slow to develop after infection (5-10 weeks) and may remain positive for >12 months after eradication of H. pylori. |
| Reference | Dunn BE et al. Clin Microbiol Rev 1997; 10: 720-741. Passaro DJ et al. Clin Infect Dis 2002; 35: 298-304. |