HELICOBACTER PYLORI, UREA BREATH TEST, PEDIATRIC

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HELICOBACTER PYLORI, UREA

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The HELICOBACTER PYLORI, UREA BREATH TEST, PEDIATRIC test contains 1 test with 1 biomarker.

Brief Description: The Pediatric Helicobacter Pylori Urea Breath Test is a non-invasive diagnostic procedure used to detect the presence of the bacteria Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) in the stomach of children. This bacterium is known to cause gastric ulcers and chronic gastritis. The test involves having the child drink a solution containing a small amount of urea labeled with a special carbon isotope. If H. pylori bacteria are present in the stomach, they will break down the urea into ammonia and carbon dioxide. The labeled carbon is then absorbed into the bloodstream and exhaled in the breath, where it can be detected and measured.

Collection Method: Breath Collection

Specimen Type: Paired breath samples (pre and post) collected in PyloPlus UBT Collection Kit bags

Test Preparation: Patient should fast at least one hour before collection of baseline breath sample.

When and Why a Pediatric Helicobacter Pylori Urea Breath Test May Be Ordered

The test is often ordered when:

  1. Symptoms Suggest Gastritis or Ulcer: If a child shows symptoms like recurrent abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, or vomiting that suggest gastritis or a peptic ulcer, this test can help determine the cause.

  2. Following Up After Treatment: After treatment for H. pylori infection, the test can be used to determine if the bacteria have been completely eradicated.

  3. Family History: If there's a family history of H. pylori infection or associated complications, a doctor might proactively test for the bacteria's presence.

What the Pediatric Helicobacter Pylori Urea Breath Test Checks For

The test specifically determines the presence of H. pylori bacteria in the stomach. The bacteria's ability to break down urea is used as a marker for its presence.

Other Lab Tests Ordered Alongside Pediatric Helicobacter Pylori Urea Breath Test

When a Urea Breath Test is ordered, it's often part of a broader evaluation of gastrointestinal symptoms and disorders. Here are some tests commonly ordered alongside it:

  1. Complete Blood Count (CBC):

    • Purpose: To evaluate overall blood health, including white and red blood cells, and platelets.
    • Why Is It Ordered: To check for signs of anemia or infection, which can occur with chronic gastritis or peptic ulcer disease associated with H. pylori infection.

  2. Stool Antigen Test for H. pylori:

    • Purpose: To detect the presence of H. pylori antigens in the stool.
    • Why Is It Ordered: As an alternative or adjunct to the breath test for diagnosing H. pylori infection.

  3. Serum Gastrin Level:

    • Purpose: To measure the level of gastrin, a hormone that stimulates the production of stomach acid.
    • Why Is It Ordered: Elevated gastrin levels can occur in some H. pylori infections and in other conditions affecting stomach acid production.

  4. Fecal Occult Blood Test:

    • Purpose: To check for hidden blood in the stool.
    • Why Is It Ordered: To screen for bleeding that might be associated with H. pylori-induced ulcers or gastritis.

  5. Liver Function Test:

    • Purpose: To assess liver health.
    • Why Is It Ordered: To rule out liver conditions that can present with similar symptoms to peptic ulcer disease.

  6. Celiac Disease Panel:

    • Purpose: To test for celiac disease.
    • Why Is It Ordered: To rule out celiac disease as a cause of gastrointestinal symptoms, which can sometimes mimic those caused by H. pylori infection.

These tests, when ordered alongside a Helicobacter pylori Urea Breath Test, provide a comprehensive view of an individual’s gastrointestinal health. They help in diagnosing H. pylori infection, assessing its impact, identifying complications, and ruling out other gastrointestinal disorders. The specific combination of tests will depend on the individual’s symptoms, medical history, and clinical findings.

Conditions or Diseases that Require a Pediatric Helicobacter Pylori Urea Breath Test

  • Gastritis: Inflammation of the stomach lining that can be caused by H. pylori infection.

  • Peptic Ulcers: Open sores that form on the inner lining of the stomach or upper part of the small intestine, commonly due to H. pylori infection.

  • Stomach Cancer Risk: Chronic H. pylori infection is known to increase the risk, though this is a concern more for adults.

Usage of Results from Pediatric Helicobacter Pylori Urea Breath Test by Health Care Providers

  • Diagnostic Purpose: A positive test result indicates an active H. pylori infection, necessitating treatment, usually with a combination of antibiotics and medications to reduce stomach acid.

  • Post-treatment Monitoring: After treatment, the test can ensure the bacteria's complete eradication, as persistent infection might require further intervention.

  • Disease Management: If a child has chronic gastritis or ulcers, understanding whether H. pylori is a contributing factor can guide the management approach.

In conclusion, the Pediatric Helicobacter Pylori Urea Breath Test is a crucial diagnostic tool, especially for children showing signs of gastric disturbances, enabling timely treatment and better patient outcomes.

Most Common Questions About the Pediatric Helicobacter Pylori Urea Breath test:

Purpose and Clinical Indications

What is the main objective of the Pediatric Helicobacter Pylori Urea Breath test?

The Pediatric Helicobacter Pylori Urea Breath test is primarily used to detect the presence of Helicobacter pylori bacteria in the stomach of children. H. pylori can cause gastric inflammation, ulcers, and is linked to certain types of stomach cancer.

Why is the Pediatric Helicobacter Pylori Urea Breath test recommended for children?

The test is recommended for children who display symptoms of gastric discomfort, ulcers, or other gastrointestinal issues where an H. pylori infection might be a suspected cause. It's a non-invasive method, making it suitable for pediatric patients.

Interpretation of Results

How are the results of the Pediatric Helicobacter Pylori Urea Breath test analyzed?

If H. pylori is present, it will break down the ingested urea, producing carbon dioxide. This carbon dioxide is then exhaled and can be detected in the breath. A positive result indicates the presence of the bacteria.

Implications and Medical Management

What are the next steps if a child tests positive for H. pylori using the Pediatric Helicobacter Pylori Urea Breath test?

A positive test usually leads to treatment with antibiotics to eradicate the bacteria. Along with antibiotics, medications to reduce stomach acid might be prescribed. Follow-up tests can be performed after treatment to ensure the bacteria have been eliminated.

Test Specifics

Why might the Pediatric Helicobacter Pylori Urea Breath test be preferred over other diagnostic methods for children?

This test is non-invasive, quick, and doesn't require an endoscopic procedure, which might be more distressing for a child. The ease of administering and the comfort level for the pediatric patient make it a preferred choice.

Special Considerations

Are there any specific conditions or medications that can affect the Pediatric Helicobacter Pylori Urea Breath test results?

Yes, recent use of antibiotics, proton pump inhibitors, or bismuth-containing medications can potentially give false-negative results. It's advisable to inform the healthcare provider of any medications the child might be taking.

Post-Test Management

What dietary or lifestyle recommendations might accompany a positive Pediatric Helicobacter Pylori Urea Breath test result?

While the primary treatment is antibiotics, it might also be recommended to avoid spicy foods, caffeine, and acidic foods that can irritate the stomach lining. Maintaining a balanced diet, proper hygiene, and avoiding untreated water can help prevent reinfection.

Test Limitations

Are there instances when the Pediatric Helicobacter Pylori Urea Breath test might not be the best diagnostic choice?

Yes, if a child has recently been on treatments or medications that can interfere with the test results, another diagnostic method might be considered. Additionally, if the child is unable to follow the test procedure like drinking the urea solution and providing a breath sample, alternative methods might be explored.

We advise having your results reviewed by a licensed medical healthcare professional for proper interpretation of your results.

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