Immunological tests and the detection of Helicobacter pylori infection

Background: Herewith we present the results of four-year testing, and more than ten years of experience in laboratory determination and interpretation of Helicobacter pylori (Hp) infection. An analysis was performed to draw attention of the physicians to the value and importance of immunological testing for the recognition of Hp infection. Methods: Serum and plasma samples were tested using conventional ELISA test, and stool samples using Hp antigen stool test. Results: We found that in 33.85 % of 446 samples specific antibodies of IgG class were confirmed, specific antibodies of IgA class were found in 5.38 %, and antigen in stool was found in 21.21 % of 246 samples. The test for the detection of specific IgG antibodies was repeated after the treatment in eight patients, for IgA antibodies never and for antigen in stool in seven patients. None of the patients had a sample of blood and stool taken and sent simultaneously. All the patients in whom testing was repeated, presented with a decrease in the amount of antibodies and absence of antigen in the stool, verifying that the curative treatment was successful. Conclusions: In the conclusion of the analysis we reveal that the doctors in our country rarely use immunological tests in the diagnostic procedure for the detection of Hp infection. If they are using them, they do not control the obtained results adequately, which is not correct! The presented situation is the consequence of the availability of sophisticated diagnostic procedures in the framework of university hospitals.