Breath Test for Diagnosing Helicobacter Pylori (UBT)
UBT - English
UBT - Spanish
The C14 urea breath test (UBT) is a diagnostic tool used to diagnose a current infection of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori). H. pylori is a bacteria that has been found to infect the stomach lining. This bacteria has been linked to many gastrointestinal systems and conditions. It is implicated in the development of duodenal and gastric ulcers. It is treated with antibiotics.
The UBT is performed and processed on site at CDD in a NATA accredited laboratory. The test takes a total of 10 minutes to complete with minimal discomfort experienced by patients.
Patients are required to fast prior to this test with no food or drink for a minimum of 4 hours. The test procedure requires patients to swallow a capsule with water. After several minutes a sample of breath is collected in a foil balloon. This sample is processed with the results sent to the patients referring doctor or GP within days.
To maximize the efficacy of this test it is important that:
- You have nothing to eat or drink for 4 hours prior to the test.
- You cease all forms of antibiotics, pump inhibitors and H2RA's, 4 weeks prior to the test (this includes other antibiotics prescribed by your GP or other Doctor).
- You cease your Losec, Zoton, Somac or Pariet for at least 1 week prior to the test.