The urea breath test is designed to detect the presence of H. pylori, a bacterium that colonizes the stomach lining and is a major cause of peptic ulcers and gastritis. The test is based on the bacterium's ability to produce the enzyme urease. This enzyme breaks down urea, a naturally occurring compound in the body, into carbon dioxide and ammonia. The test involves the patient ingesting a urea solution labeled with a special carbon isotope, either carbon-13 or carbon-14.
After ingestion, if H. pylori is present, the urease enzyme will metabolize the urea, releasing labeled carbon dioxide that can be detected in the patient's Urea Breath Test. The presence of this labeled carbon dioxide indicates an H. pylori infection, allowing for prompt and accurate diagnosis.
The Procedure: Step-by-Step
Preparation: Patients are advised to fast for a few hours before the test. They should also avoid certain medications and foods that might interfere with the results.
Baseline Breath Sample: A baseline breath sample is collected by having the patient exhale into a collection bag or device.
Ingestion of Urea Solution: The patient drinks a urea solution containing the carbon isotope.
Post-Ingestion Breath Sample: After waiting for about 15 to 30 minutes, another breath sample is collected.
Analysis: The collected breath samples are analyzed using mass spectrometry or infrared spectroscopy to detect the presence of labeled carbon dioxide.
Accuracy and Reliability
The urea breath test is renowned for its high accuracy and reliability. Studies have shown that the test has a sensitivity and specificity of over 95%, making it one of the most dependable methods for diagnosing H. pylori infections. Its non-invasive nature also reduces the risk of complications and discomfort for patients, compared to more invasive procedures like endoscopy and biopsy.
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