Impact of Proton Pump Inhibitors on H. pylori Test Results
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), commonly used to reduce stomach acid, can significantly impact the accuracy of H. pylori diagnostic tests. The H. Pylori Test market outlines how PPIs interfere with bacterial activity and test sensitivity.
PPIs suppress H. pylori density and urease activity, potentially causing false-negative results in urea breath tests and stool antigen assays. This effect is more pronounced if PPIs are taken within two weeks prior to testing.
Guidelines recommend discontinuing PPIs at least 14 days before H. pylori testing to improve diagnostic reliability. Serology tests remain unaffected but have other limitations.
Clinicians must consider PPI use when interpreting test results to avoid misdiagnosis and treatment delays. Improved patient education and test timing protocols help mitigate these issues.