Peptic Ulcers

Diagnosis

H. pylori infection is diagnosed in various ways. Unlike testing for other infections, a culture is generally not taken. The most common tests used to detect an infection with H. pylori bacteria are:

• An upper gastrointestinal endoscopy — used to inspect the stomach lining and to take a small sample of tissue to confirm the diagnosis
• Urea breath test — measures the enzyme produced by bacteria collected in the patient's breath
• Stool antigen test
• Blood test for H. pylori antibodies

Many people may have non-ulcer dyspepsia or ulcer symptoms but no ulcers are found. The biopsy may show a mild inflammation of the stomach (gastritis). There is little evidence of a relationship between non-ulcer dyspepsia or other symptoms, such as bloating and belching, and H. pylori infection.