Helic-test

What is Helic-test?

It is a diagnostic method that helps to identify the presence of Helicobacter pylori – a pathogen that causes such diseases as stomach and duodenum ulcer, gastritis, and duodenitis. In some cases, this bacteria can cause stomach cancer and gastric lymphoma.

Helic-test is a non-invasive breath test (it does not require the insertion of a tube). It is used for initial diagnosis, as well as to monitor the treatment.

The essence of this method is based on the ability of Helicobacter pylori to produce a special enzyme called urease, which is normally not present in the stomach. Urease manifests itself with a specific chemical reaction. As a result of that, carbon dioxide and ammonia flow into the mouth cavity through the esophagus, where they can be detected by a special device.

The accuracy of a Helic-test is 75%. The results are known right after the examination.

The test is absolutely safe and is indicated for children and pregnant women. Carbamide solution of normal isotopic composition is used to perform the examination (other similar breath tests use radioactive isotope C14).

Helic-test at Kivach Clinic

The specialists of the clinic perform the test using the HELIC system, developed by Russian specialists.

About the procedure

What to expect during the procedure?

The patient is seated. The test is divided into two parts.

Part one

The patient breathes in a plastic tube with a sensor as he/she usually does. The breath should not be forced, and the tube should not touch the tongue and palate, because the test results will not be accurate should the saliva get into the tube.

During this time, the sensor analyzes a patient's breath, and the doctor records the results.

Part two

The patient takes a 50% carbamide solution and breathes into a tube with a sensor for 6 minutes. If there is urease in the stomach (which indicates the presence of Helicobacter pylori), the sensor will identify certain chemical elements.

The results of this stage are also recorded by a doctor, who compares them to the results of the first stage and can draw a conclusion about whether the patient is infected with Helicobacter pylori or not.

Contraindications

There are no contraindications.

Question-answer

1. Is the procedure safe?

2. The procedure is absolutely safe. Carbamide solution of normal isotopic composition is used to perform the examination. We do not use radioactive isotopes. Helic-test is ordered for pregnant women and children as well.

3. Is the procedure painful?

4. The procedure is painless and non-invasive (no tubes are inserted into a patient’s body).

5. How to prepare for the procedure?
6. • Exclude antibiotics, antacids, anti-inflammatory drugs, antisecretory drugs, and bismuth-containing drugs 4-6 weeks before the test.
   • Stop taking analgesics two weeks before the test.
   • Avoid alcohol three days before the test.
   • One day before the test, avoid products that cause bloating: brown bread, potato, beans, cabbage, etc.
   • The dinner before the test should be light and not very late. The last meal should be taken no less than 6-8 hours before the test.
   • Do not eat or chew gum in the morning before the test, and avoid smoking 3-4 hours before the procedure.
   • Brush the teeth and rinse the mouth thoroughly before the test. Using mouthwash is prohibited.
   • You can drink up to 100 ml of water.
7. What ensures that the procedure is successful?
8. • Qualified doctors and nurses with extensive practical experience.
   • Using advanced equipment and certified drugs.
   • Compliance with aseptics and the standards of medical care.