Helicobacter - breath test

During the examination, two samples are taken from the patient. One before and one after administrating a natural stable carbon-12 isotope. If Helicobacter pylori is present, after administering the isotope, part of it will be rapidly hydrolysed in the stomach. Ammonia produced during this reaction will be expelled from the stomach through the oesophagus into the mouth, and the indicator in the test tube will change from yellow to blue. The device will read and compare changes, and special software will present the result and interpretation. The test ensures great sensitivity (95%) and specificity (97%) of the measurements taken. The procedure takes about 12 minutes. The test is safe for pregnant women and children aged 4 and older.

It is very important to prepare for this examination.

• The test should be performed on an empty stomach, at least 12 hours after the last meal. The last meal should not contain such products as meat, fish, or mushrooms.
• If the patient has been taking antibiotics, the test should be performed 4-6 weeks after finishing the antibiotic.
• For 2 weeks before the examination do not take any medications that reduce gastric acid secretion (proton-pump inhibitors), antacids, painkillers or anti-inflammatory drugs, as well as medicines containing bismuth.
• For 3 days before the examination do not eat legumes (i.e. beans, lentils, peas, soybeans, etc.) or drink alcohol.
• On the day of the test do not chew gum or smoke cigarettes for 3 hours before the test.
• Brush your teeth before the examination.