Test Code LAB4315 Helicobactor pylori Gastric Biopsy

Performing Lab

Arnot Ogden Medical Center

Ordering Recommendations

As an aid in the diagnosis of Helicobacter pylori.

Collect

Gastric Biopsy

Collection Device

Selective Rapid Urea Vial

Storage/Transport Temperature

Transport to laboratory without delay at room temperature.

Methodology

Selective Urease Enzyme Activity

Start Date

9/13/2017

Last Review Date

6/23/2025

Specimen Handling

Room Temperature

Interpretive Data

LIMITATIONS:

An improperly transported specimen may result in an inaccurate result.
A false-positive reaction may result if the medium becomes contaminated with a urease-producing organism.
A false-negative reaction could result from a biopsy containing an insufficient number of organisms. NOTE: A negative rapid urease result does not rule out the possibility of H. pyori colonization.
Urea test media rely on demonstration of alkalinity and are not specific for the detection of urease activity. Peptones in the medium may be hydrolyzed releasing alkaline by-products that may increase the pH causing a pink color in the medium which should not be confused with the intense pink-red color of a positive result.

Collection Instructions

The recommended gastric area to biopsy is at least 2cm away from the pylorus along the lesser or greater curve of the antrum. Excise tissue that appears normal; avoid tissue that is eroded or ulcerated as H. pylori may be present in smaller numbers around those areas. A standard biopsy forceps should render a specimen of sufficient size for the test.

Remove the media from the refrigerator. Allow media to come to room temperature before inoculating with the biopsy.
Insert the biopsy into the agar.
With a sterile applicator device, push the entire sample beneath the surface of the gel.
Cap the media tube.

Remarks

Turn Around Time

24 hours

Reported