Helicobacter Pylori Test

Helicobacter pylori is a bacterium that colonizes the stomach lining and can persist for decades if not addressed. It interferes with normal stomach acid regulation, often causing low stomach acid early in infection, followed by excessive or erratic acid production over time. This disruption impairs protein digestion, mineral absorption such as iron and B12, and weakens the protective mucus layer of the stomach. While many people carry H. pylori without symptoms, higher levels or strains with virulence genes increase the risk of chronic gastritis, peptic ulcers, and gastric cancer. Detection on stool DNA testing reflects active colonization rather than past exposure and helps guide whether eradication or suppression is appropriate.

Treatment requires a combination of strong acid suppression and multiple antibiotics taken for 14 days. Acid suppression improves antibiotic effectiveness by raising stomach pH, while combination therapy reduces the chance that resistant bacteria survive. That said, rising global antibiotic resistance has made older triple-drug regimens unreliable in many regions. Current best practice favors quadruple regimens, often including bismuth, and tailoring therapy based on local resistance patterns when possible. Confirming eradication after treatment is now considered a core part of care, not an optional step.