Tests Improved for Detection of Helicobacter Pylori Antigen

Tests for the of Helicobacter pylori antigen in stool samples have been improved. These tests can be used for the diagnosis and management of active H. pylori infection.

Employing a combination of amplification technology and monoclonal antibodies, two noninvasive tests can be performed using a patient stool sample. They detect H. pylori antigen with a high degree of accuracy and can be used to diagnose current infection in both adult and pediatric patients. Unlike serology methods, these stool antigen tests can be used to detect active infection and to confirm the eradication of H. pylori following antibiotic therapy.

A rapid immunochromatographic membrane-based assay provides reliable results in just 15 minutes, without the need for special equipment. Called Rapid Hp StAR, the method is suitable for small volume testing in the laboratory or for near patient testing in gastroenterology clinics and doctors offices. This makes it convenient for monitoring the efficacy of antimicrobial treatment without the need for return hospital visits.

The second test, IDEIA Hp StAR, is a sensitive and specific enzyme immunoassay. The test is easy to perform using standard equipment, allowing the "test and treat” policy recommended by the European Helicobacter Study Group (EHSG) to be implemented in routine laboratories. It is suitable for both manual and automated testing and has demonstrated good performance when compared to the urea breath test and alternative enzyme immunoassays.

The two tests are produced by Oxoid (Basingstoke, UK), a microbiology company whose products are used in laboratories to help diagnose infectious diseases. Laura Ward, marketing manager, Oxoid commented, "The Hp StAR tests provide cost effective, noninvasive alternatives to the more invasive methods offered by many hospitals. They involve minimal discomfort for the patient, making them particularly suitable for pediatric use. Furthermore, the ability to detect active infections also helps to avoid the unnecessary administration of antibiotics."

Oxoid is part of Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. (Waltham MA, USA). Thermo Scientific offers analytical instruments as well as laboratory equipment, software, services, consumables, and reagents to enable integrated laboratory workflow solutions. Fisher Scientific has a portfolio of laboratory equipment, chemicals, supplies, and services used in healthcare, scientific research, safety, and education.

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