Urea Breath Test (UBT)

A urea breath test is one of the most accurate, non‑invasive ways to detect Helicobacter pylori

(H. pylori), the bacteria that causes most stomach ulcers.

H. pylori produce urease, an enzyme that breaks down urea into ammonia and carbon dioxide.

The test measures CO₂ in your breath after you swallow a urea capsule.

You will be given the test to use at home. Be sure to follow the instructions provided

How are the results of the urea breath test interpreted?

If the urea breath test is positive and the isotopic carbon is detected in the

breath, it means that H. pylori is present in the stomach. If the isotope is not

found in the breath, the test results are negative for the infection.

When H. pylori is effectively treated by antibiotics, the test changes from positive

(isotope present) to negative (isotope absent).

There are no side effects, risks, or complications of the urea breath test

Doctors will recommend UBT if you have the following symptoms. :

Persistent stomach pain or indigestion

• Suspected gastric or duodenal ulcers

• Chronic gastritis

• To confirm that H. pylori treatment was successful

Precautions

1-Fasting for at least 1 hour .

2-Stop antimicrobials 2 weeks before the test.

3-Stop proton pump inhibitors 2 weeks before the test.

4-Stop smoking, chewing gum, and mouthwash on the day of the exam.

Instructions

1-Collect baseline sample :

inhale,hold your breath for 10 seconds then slightly exhale into the room beforefully exhaling into the baselinebag. place cap securely on the bag to prevent any loss of sample.

2-Empty the contents of citric flavoring packet into the urea test pouch and fill about 1/3 with water.shake for 15 seconds to mix.

3- Drink the solution using the included straw.

4-Wait 15 minutes then collect the second breath sample in the second breath collection bag. place cap securely on the bag to prevent any loss of sample.

Notes

Shipment to lab within 24 hours of collection