Which diagnostic test is most commonly used for H. pylori infection?

The most commonly used diagnostic test for H. pylori infection, particularly in non-invasive settings, is the 13-C urea assay. This breath test detects labeled carbon dioxide in the breath after ingestion of a substrate containing urea that has been tagged with a non-radioactive carbon isotope. When H. pylori is present in the stomach, it metabolizes the urea, producing carbon dioxide, which is absorbed into the bloodstream and subsequently exhaled.

This method is favored due to its simplicity, accuracy, and non-invasive nature, making it suitable for a wide range of patients. Additionally, it allows for the rapid diagnosis of H. pylori, which is crucial for timely treatment and management.

While rapid urease tests and endoscopic biopsy are effective diagnostic tools, they are often used in more invasive circumstances. Rapid urease tests are typically performed during endoscopy, making them less accessible for broader screening purposes. Endoscopic biopsy specifically targets the stomach lining and can confirm the presence of H. pylori, but it involves more risk and is limited to patients undergoing procedures for other reasons.

The serological IgG test detects antibodies against H. pylori, but it is less favored because it does not distinguish between active and past infections, potentially