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Helicobacter Pylori, IgM

(H Pylori IgM)

₹1819~~₹1850~~ 1% Off

You need to provide

Blood

This test is for

Male, Female

Earliest reports in

192 hours

Test Preparation

No special preparation is required.

Understanding Helicobacter Pylori, IgM

What is Helicobacter Pylori, IgM?

The Helicobacter Pylori, IgM test helps detect immunoglobulin M (IgM) antibodies against Helicobacter Pylori (H. pylori), a type of bacteria that primarily causes gastrointestinal conditions. This test helps diagnose recent or ongoing H. pylori infections, helping in their timely and effective management.

Helicobactor Pylori infection is one of the most common bacterial infections affecting both children and adults associated with a wide range of gastrointestinal conditions, including gastritis, peptic ulcers, gastric ulcers, gastric mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma, and gastric adenocarcinoma. Despite its prevalence, H. pylori infection often remains asymptomatic or presents with nonspecific symptoms, making diagnosis challenging without specific laboratory testing.

The Helicobacter Pylori, IgM test helps detect Immunoglobulin M (IgM) antibodies produced by the immune system in response to an H.pylori infection. IgM antibodies are the first antibodies produced during the initial stages of infection, indicating an active or recent H. pylori infection. This test is particularly useful in the early stages of infection, making the test valuable in diagnosing new infections and helping doctors diagnose and initiate appropriate treatment to prevent complications like chronic gastritis, ulcers, and an increased risk of gastric cancer.

This test is particularly valuable for individuals with gastrointestinal symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, vomiting, as well as those with a history of peptic ulcers or gastric cancer. This test helps in the early detection, effective management and ongoing monitoring of infection status.

It is noteworthy that the Helicobacter Pylori, IgM test is a screening test and only detects the presence of antibodies against H.pylori bacteria. It does not confirm the presence of a gastrointestinal disease and therefore, should not be used as a sole criteria for the diagnosis of H. pylori associated gastrointestinal infections. Doctors may recommend a few other tests in conjunction with the Helicobacter Pylori, IgM test to confirm the diagnosis.

No special preparation is needed for the Helicobacter Pylori, IgM test. However, it is important to inform your doctor about any medications or supplements or medical conditions before the test as these factors may potentially influence the test results.

Lab test results may vary across different laboratories. Abnormal test results require an expert interpretation; therefore, never try to self-medicate at home based solely on these results, and always consult a doctor for a proper understanding of the test results. The insights from this test help the doctor tailor an appropriate treatment plan. Although maintaining good hygiene by washing hands thoroughly, eating hygienically prepared food, and drinking water from a safe, clean source are some ways to prevent an H. pylori infection, particularly in children.

What is Helicobacter Pylori, IgM used for?

The Helicobacter Pylori, IgM test is done:

To help diagnose current or recent infections with H. pylori.
When there are symptoms suggestive of H.Pylori infection such as burning, pain and tenderness in the abdomen, recurrent stomach pain, indigestion, unexplained weight loss, bloating and intestinal bleeding.
To identify high-risk individuals with elevated antibody levels against H. pylori bacteria.
In individuals with a history of gastric ulcers or stomach cancer.

To assess the effectiveness of the treatment.

To assess the risk of complications associated with Helicobacter pylori infection, such as gastric ulcers or stomach cancer.
To monitor for recurrence of the H. Pylori infection.

What does Helicobacter Pylori, IgM measure?

The Helicobacter Pylori, IgM test detects the presence of immunoglobulin M (IgM) antibodies produced by the immune system in response to Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection. H.pylori is a bacterium that can colonize in the stomach lining and is associated with various gastrointestinal conditions, including gastritis, peptic ulcers, and gastric cancer.

By detecting IgM antibodies, this test helps doctors diagnose current H. pylori infection as these are the first antibodies to appear as an immediate response to an infection and typically become undetectable after some time. Therefore, the presence of IgM antibodies in the blood signals an active/ongoing H. pylori infection.

The test results can help individuals and doctors understand the risk of H.pylori-related conditions, such as peptic ulcers or gastric cancer, and guide treatment decisions if infection is detected. This test also helps monitor treatment response over time and allows infected individuals to take proactive steps in managing their gastrointestinal health and reducing the risk of complications.

Frequently Asked Questions about Helicobacter Pylori, IgM

Q. Why is the Helicobacter Pylori, IgM test done?

The test is often to investigate a current or ongoing H. Pylori infection particularly when an individual has symptoms of an H. pylori infection such as stomach pain, nausea, bloating, and ulcers. It is also used to determine the success of treatment for H. pylori.

Q. Do I need to fast before the Helicobacter Pylori, IgM test?

No fasting is required for this test. You can eat or drink as per your routine.

Q. What do the results of the H. pylori IgM test mean?

A positive result indicates a current or recent infection with H. pylori while a negative result suggests that there is no active H. pylori infection.

Q. Can the H. pylori IgM test differentiate between an active and a past infection?

No, the H. pylori IgM test specifically detects recent or active infections. Other tests, like the H. pylori IgG test, might indicate past infections.

Q. What should I do if my test result is positive?

If your test result is positive, consult your doctor and discuss your test reports. Your doctor may prescribe a course of antibiotics and other possible treatments to eradicate the infection.

Q. What is Helicobacter pylori?

Helicobacter pylori, or H. pylori, is a type of bacteria that can infect the stomach lining. It is a common bacterium found in the digestive tract and is associated with various gastrointestinal conditions, including gastritis, peptic ulcers and stomach cancer. H. pylori infection can occur in people of all ages and is usually acquired during childhood. Treatment with antibiotics is often necessary to eliminate the infection and prevent infections.

Q. What are the symptoms of an H. pylori infection?

Common symptoms of an H. pylori infection are burning, pain and tenderness in the abdomen, recurrent stomach pain, feeling of fullness, nausea, indigestion, unexplained weight loss, bloating and intestinal bleeding.

Q. Can H. pylori infections be prevented?

H. pylori infections cannot always be prevented , but certain measures can help reduce the risk of infection. These include practicing good hygiene, such as hand washing before eating and after using the restroom, avoiding food or water that may be contaminated, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and regular exercise. However, H. pylori infection can be acquired through close contact with infected individuals or ingestion of contaminated food or water, complete prevention may not always be possible.