Helicobacter Pylori IgG Blood Test

Test for antibodies to Helicobacter pylori, indicating a recent or past infection.

Helicobacter pylori is a bacteria that can live in the lining of your stomach. Infection with helicobacter pylori is actually very common, in some parts of the world up to 50% of people are infected although no one is quite sure how it spreads. Although many people will have absolutely no symptoms due to the infection, it can cause abdominal pain, bloating, and indigestion. It is also responsible for causing the majority of stomach ulcers and duodenal ulcers and, rarely, can cause gastric cancer. Once detected, it is straightforward to treat with antibiotics. IgG is an antibody, a protein produced by the immune system in response to infection. IgG antibodies also form part of the immune system's memory, enabling the body to respond more effectively to an infection it encounters again. A positive Helicobacter Pylori IgG result suggests a past infection with the bacteria.