H Pylori Antibody IgG Blood Test

Sample Report Test Code: 162289 Specimen Type: Blood

Description:

H Pylori Antibody IgG Blood Test (Labcorp)

The H Pylori Abs IgG test may be used to help determine the cause of ulcers in the stomach or duodenum (first section of the small intestine) or to assess the cause of chronic gastritis. The H Pylori IgG test screens for antibodies that may remain present in the bloodstream even after an infection has been successfully treated.

H Pylori is a bacteria commonly found in the stomach. It weakens the stomach's natural protective lining making it more susceptible to damage from gastric acid. This can lead to the development of ulcers and in time, increase the risk of developing stomach cancer.  Symptoms of H Pylori typically include heartburn, nausea, gas, stomach or abdominal pain, bloating, vomiting, and indigestion.

There are several ways to test for H Pylori. An H Pylori IgG Antibody blood test looks for antibodies that the body develops in response to infection. These antibodies will typically be present if a person has had a recent or past infection and may remain detectable 12-18 months after treatment.

An H Pylori IgA Antibody blood test is also available which looks for a different type of antibody that may not develop in all people. This test can help identify infection in people who only develop IgG antibodies at very low levels.  Because blood antibodies can persist even after a person has been successfully treated, the American College of Gastroenterology (ACG) recommends either an H Pylori Breath Test or H Pylori Stool Antigen Test for identifying an active infection.  Blood testing has a sensitivity of 85% and a specificity of 79% whereas Breath testing has a sensitivity of 100% and a specificity of 97.9% and Stool testing has a sensitivity of 96% and a specificity of 96%.  Breath testing is also considered the most effective way of determining if treatment for H Pylori was effective.

Turnaround time for the H-Pylori IgG antibodies test is typically 2-5 business days.

Where can I find an H Pylori test near me?

Check our lab finder to locate a collection site in your area.