Helicobacter pylori: An Update on Diagnostic Testing [Hot Topic]

With approximately 50% of the world population seropositive for antibodies to Helicobacter pylori, accurate identification is critical to identify patients who are suffering from gastric ulcers as a result of infection. Serologic detection of antibodies to H pylori has been discontinued at Mayo Medical Laboratories due to the poor performance characteristics of these assays and the recent lack of patient reimbursement from multiple large insurance providers. As alternatives to serologic testing, the urea breath test or stool antigen assay are recommended. This presentation reviews the clinical manifestations of H pylori infection, describes proper test utilization for diagnosis of H pylori and summarizes how the decision to discontinue serologic testing for H pylori was reached by Mayo Medical Laboratories. A presentation by Elli Theel, PhD