Infection with Helicobacter pylori is the cause of most stomach and duodenal ulcers but can be simply cured by a course of antibiotics. Easy detection is therefore clinically important. Traditional non-invasive tests for diagnosis of H. Pylori infection have limitations. Detection of blood antibodies cannot differentiate between active and past exposure. The Urea Breath Test (UBT), whilst able to identify current infection, is costly and requires specialist equipment since it involves the ingestion of radioactive carbon.
In contrast, the stool antigen test represents a cost effective alternative with little or no compromise on sensitivity and specificity.
The new Easy-Card H. pylori Antigen test, available from Alpha Laboratories, is designed for rapid detection of H. pylori antigen in stool samples and gives a result in just 10 minutes. Sample processing is quick and simple using the dipstick sampling device and pre-filled buffer tube. The Easy-Card's lateral flow technology means it is clear and straightforward to read the result. It has an integral control for assay validation, sensitivity is 94% and specificity is 99%.
Helicobacter pylori infections cause 90% of duodenal ulcers and 80% of gastric ulcers. Those individuals with H. pylori colonisations are also at increased risk of developing gastric cancer. Whilst infections can be asymptomatic they can also cause gastritis, abdominal pain, nausea, bloating and dyspepsia.
