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 maximise the efficacy of this test it
is important that:
1. You have nothing to eat or drink for 4 hours prior
to the test.
2. 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).
3. You cease your Losec, Zoton, Somac or Pariet for at
least 1 week prior to the test.
