Diagnosis of Helicobacter pylori infection

This past year the focus has remained on non-invasive tests, and more specifically the antigen stool test for which a number of studies have been published, validating its use for screening as well as for post-therapy follow-up. The possibilities offered by antibody testing have been further explored. A new antibody test in urine has emerged while use of the urea breath test, which is now standardized has been extended to children. Biopsy-based tests, especially culture, continue to be of great value for macrolide susceptibility testing, but new molecular methods such as a PCR hybridization assay have also been proposed. Curr Opin Gastroenterol 16 (suppl 1):S5-S10 (C) 2000 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.