The urea breath test detects the Helicobacter pylori bacterium, which can cause stomach ulcers, gastritis, and gastric cancers. The test involves analyzing breath samples for carbon dioxide after the patient swallows a capsule or solution containing carbon isotopes. Treatment for a positive result usually involves antibiotics.
A urea breath test, sometimes called a carbon urea breath test, is used to detect a bacterium known as Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori). The test is used to find bacteria in the stomach. Helicobacter pylori can cause a Helicobacter pylori infection, stomach or peptic ulcers, and gastritis. Individuals with these conditions or suspected of having one of these conditions may have this type of test. In most cases, the urea breath test takes about 30 minutes and is done on an outpatient basis.
Some people with small traces of the Helicobacter pylori bacteria may show no outward symptoms. For others, the bacteria can cause serious complications. If the bacteria spread to the stomach and portions of the small intestine known as the duodenum, an infection can result. Bacteria can also cause an erosion or ulcer to form in these areas. Some gastric cancers and inflammation of the stomach lining can also be caused by the bacterium Helicobacter pylori.
During a Helicobacter pylori urea breath test, samples will be taken to analyze the breath for carbon dioxide. Urea, a chemical waste, is transformed into carbon dioxide by the bacterium Helicobacter pylori. The test usually begins by having the patient exhale into a specialized bag. Next, he or she may be given a capsule or solution containing carbon isotopes to swallow. Another breath sample will be obtained and examined for a significant increase in carbon dioxide, which will denote the presence of helicobacter pylori.
Patients undergoing a urea breath test will be advised if they need to make any preparations in advance. Some patients may be asked to stop consuming food and drink within a couple of hours of the test. If this is required and the patient accidentally eats, the doctor should be notified. It’s also important to alert doctors to any medications you are currently on. Some medications can negatively impact the results of this type of breath test.
Typically, normal activities can be continued after taking a urea breath test. The samples will be sent to a laboratory for analysis and the doctor will inform the patient of the test results. Patients whose breath test reveals Helicobacter pylori infection will need follow-up treatment. In most cases, antibiotics are used to treat an infection of this nature. Individuals with an infection may be advised to complete the full dose of antibiotics and have a second breath test.
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