The Urease Breath Test is a diagnostic tool used to detect Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection, which is a common cause of gastric ulcers and gastritis.
Indications for Urease Breath Test:
● Gastric ulcers: To confirm the presence of H. pylori infection, which can cause ulcers in the stomach or duodenum.
● Chronic gastritis: For patients with symptoms like abdominal discomfort, bloating, and indigestion.
● Post-treatment monitoring: To check if the H. pylori infection has been eradicated after antibiotic therapy.
How Urease Breath Test Works:
● The patient drinks a liquid containing urea labeled with a radioactive carbon isotope. H. pylori breaks down the urea, and the resulting carbon dioxide is detected in the breath sample.
Normal Range:
● Negative result: No H. pylori infection.
● Positive result: Indicates the presence of H. pylori infection.
Abnormal Test Significance:
● Positive result: Indicates that the patient has an active H. pylori infection, requiring treatment with antibiotics and acid-reducing medications.
Price in India:
Approx. ₹1,500 – ₹4,000 for the urease breath test.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the urease breath test reliable?
Yes, it is a highly accurate test for detecting H. pylori infection.
How long does the test take?
The test typically takes about 15–30 minutes.
Disclaimer: The urease breath test is a diagnostic tool for H. pylori infection and should be used alongside other clinical assessments for comprehensive care.
How HealthPil Can Help:
At HealthPil, we connect you with gastroenterologists who can help interpret your urease breath test results and guide you through the best treatment options for gastric ulcers and H. pylori infections.