Vnitr Lek 2000, 46(6):341-346

[Possibilities in the diagnosis of Helicobacter pylori].

M Kopácová, J Bures, V Vorísek: Komplementární centrum vnitrního lékarství-II. interní klinika Fakultní nemocnice, Hradec Králové.

The authors present an overview of current possibilities of the diagnostics of Helicobacter pylori (HP) focused on non-invasive methods. The overview is based on author's own experience and studying of applicable literature. Non-invasive methods (endoscopy is not needed) include serology (blood tests) and breath tests. Both methods are compared one with the other (and with invasive methods as well) not only from the point of view of sensitivity and specificity, but especially from the point of view of their practical use and correct indication of their use. 13C urea breath tests are non-invasive global tests with 100% reproducibility, high sensitivity and specificity. It is possible to pursue them everywhere and send them by post for processing. The analysis time for one breath sample is within 60 seconds. Breath tests are the gold standard of diagnostics of HP and if only one test is used, they are the best way of verifying the success of eradication therapy, of examination of children and pregnant women and of implementing the population studies.