Helicobacter Pylori Bacterial Load Test
Short Name: H. pylori Bacterial Load
Also known as: H. pylori PCR, H. pylori bacterial load quantification
Helicobacter Pylori Bacterial Load Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹6,000. Uses Real Time PCR on Gastric lavage, Biopsy samples. Results in Reports are available on the 3rd working day. Email reports within 36 hours, phone within 24 hours.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.
🩺 Medically Reviewed By
Dr Kothari Ramesh Shantilal
Consultant Microbiologist · Reg: 27670
Last reviewed: September 7, 2026
Overview
The purpose of the Helicobacter pylori bacterial load test is to detect the presence of H. pylori bacteria in the stomach and quantify its load. This aids in diagnosing active infection, monitoring treatment response, and assessing the risk of complications such as peptic ulcers or gastric cancer. The test is particularly useful for patients with persistent dyspepsia, refractory symptoms, or those who have failed previous eradication therapy.
- Test Code
- 6152
- CPT Code
- 87533
- ICD Code
- B96.81
- Price
- ₹6,000
- Sample Type
- Gastric lavage, Biopsy
- Result Time
- Reports are available on the 3rd working day. Email reports within 36 hours, phone within 24 hours.
- Fasting Required
- No
- Method
- Real Time PCR
Sample Collection
Inform your doctor about any medications you are taking, especially antibiotics, PPIs, or bismuth. You may be advised to stop these for 2 weeks before the test. Fasting is not required, but follow your doctor's instructions.
Method: Endoscopic biopsy or gastric lavage
Laboratory Analysis
The sample is collected via endoscopy (biopsy) or gastric lavage. You may be given a sedative for endoscopy. The procedure is quick and generally painless.
Report Delivery
After the procedure, you may experience mild throat discomfort or bloating. Resume normal activities as advised. Your doctor will discuss the results with you.
Timeline: Reports are available on the 3rd working day. Email reports within 36 hours, phone within 24 hours.
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
The purpose of the Helicobacter pylori bacterial load test is to detect the presence of H. pylori bacteria in the stomach and quantify its load. This aids in diagnosing active infection, monitoring treatment response, and assessing the risk of complications such as peptic ulcers or gastric cancer. The test is particularly useful for patients with persistent dyspepsia, refractory symptoms, or those who have failed previous eradication therapy.
How to Prepare
- Sign the consent document before sample collection.
- Bring any relevant clinical history of the patient.
- Ensure the sample is transported immediately to the laboratory.
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr Kothari Ramesh Shantilal — MBBS, MD (Microbiology) · Reg. No. 27670
"Quantifying H. pylori bacterial load helps guide treatment decisions, especially in cases of persistent infection or suspected antibiotic resistance. PCR-based testing offers high sensitivity and specificity."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Insufficient sample volume
- Sample not transported in appropriate transport medium
- Sample received after prolonged delay (>48 hours)
Understanding Your Results
Not detected
No H. pylori DNA found. Active infection unlikely.
Detected (low load: <1000 copies/mL)
Presence of H. pylori. May indicate early infection or low bacterial density.
Detected (moderate load: 1000-10,000 copies/mL)
Active infection with significant bacterial load. Treatment recommended.
Detected (high load: >10,000 copies/mL)
High bacterial load. Increased risk of complications. Urgent treatment advised.
Consult your doctor if you experience persistent abdominal pain, blood in stool or vomit, unexplained weight loss, or if you have been diagnosed with H. pylori and need follow-up testing.
Limitations
- ⚠The test cannot differentiate between active and past infection if the patient has been treated recently.
- ⚠Quantification may not correlate with disease severity.
- ⚠Requires specialized laboratory equipment and trained personnel.
Risks & Considerations
- ●Minimal risk of bleeding or infection at biopsy site
- ●Sore throat after endoscopy
- ●Reaction to sedative (rare)
Interfering Factors
- ●Recent use of antibiotics, bismuth compounds, or proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) may reduce bacterial load and cause false negatives.
- ●Improper sample collection or transport may degrade DNA.
- ●Contamination during collection can lead to false positives.
Compare With Similar Tests
| Test | Helicobacter Pylori Bacterial Load Test | Urea Breath Test | Stool Antigen Test | Serology (Antibody Test) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Comparison | Helicobacter Pylori Bacterial Load Test |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of the H. pylori bacterial load test?
How is the sample collected?
Do I need to fast before the test?
How long does it take to get results?
Is home sample collection available?
What is the accuracy of this test?
Can I take antibiotics before the test?
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Is the test covered by insurance?
What is the difference between this test and a biopsy culture?
Can this test be done for children?
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