Helicobacter pylori is a bacterial infection. It can cause serious damage or remain benign. Found in the digestive tract, it may go years without being detected. One of the means of achieving this is through an H Pylori Rapid Test. It is not the only method but, due to its non-invasive approach, is one of the more popular and favored method of testing for the disease.
Basic Methods for Testing for H. Pylori
Currently, there are two major methods for testing for H. Pylori. These are with and without an endoscopy.
* With an Endoscopy: This involves the use of a biopsy sample. However, while the results may be good, the method is generally quite invasive. The actual examination may take one of several forms including:
* Histology: An examination of the tissue under a microscope for signs of the presence of this bacteria or other types.
* Rapid urease testing: This takes the sample and tests it for the presence of unease (an enzyme found in conjunction with the bacteria in the stomach). An H. Pylori Rapid Test is one example of an effective means of quickly and easily testing a biopsy
The overall problem with utilizing these methods is the invasiveness of the approach. All involve removing a tissue sample for performing some form of biopsy. However, effective results can come from such a practice and can prove to be effective.
* Without an Endoscopy: Several types of non-invasive techniques are available for use to detect the presence of H. Pylori. The more common ones are:
Stool/fecal antigen test: This method requires a stool sample. It then detect the presence or lack of the bacteria
* Urea breath test: This is another non-invasive test. The approach is simple. The patient drinks a specific fluid containing radioactive material in low levels or one that is nonradioactive. The liquid reacts to the presence of the bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract. If it is there, it will break down and the individual will release it in his or her breath as “labeled” carbon dioxide gas.
* H. pylori antibody testing: this test is not commonly applied because it cannot help a physician to discover whether the current presence of the bacteria is new or older. It, therefore, cannot evaluate the effectiveness of a treatment regime or be valuable for a routine diagnosis.
H Pylori Rapid Test
H pylori is a bacterial infection that invades the body through the mouth and moves down into the intestinal system. While not always resulting in serious health issues, it can create problems. Early detection by a medical professional using either invasive or non-invasive methods can prove to be an effective way of detecting the disease and monitoring the effectiveness of a treatment. The H pylori rapid test is one means through which a physician can detect the problem effectively, efficiently and quickly.
