Positive Serologic Test for Helicobacter pylori

Differential Diagnosis

Gastric ulcer

Duodenal ulcer

Suggested Additional Lab Testing

For gastric ulcer:

• Endoscopy to visualize the ulcer; biopsy of the lesion is recommended to determine if patient has gastric adenocarcinoma.

• Rapid urease test of biopsy material (CLO test) verifies the presence of active infection.

For duodenal ulcer disease:

• Urea breath test is a sensitive and specific test for detection of active infection without the use of biopsy in patients with uncomplicated duodenal ulcer.

• If a biopsy is performed, the CLO test, if positive, verifies the presence of active infection.