How is Helicobacter Pylori Presumptively Identified

Question

How is Helicobacter pylori presumptively identified?
A) A culture of a gastric biopsy
B) A culture of gastric scrapings
C) A rapid oxidase test done on gastric scrapings
D) A rapid urease test done on a gastric biopsy

Accepted Answer

The rapid urease test done on a gastric biopsy is considered the most common and accurate method of presumptively identifying Helicobacter pylori. This test detects the presence of urease, an enzyme produced by the bacteria, which hydrolyzes urea into ammonia and carbon dioxide. If the test is positive, it indicates the presence of H. pylori in the stomach. Culture of gastric biopsy or scrapings can also be used to identify the bacteria, but these methods require longer incubation times and are less sensitive than the rapid urease test. A rapid oxidase test is not specific for H. pylori and may give false-positive results.