Helicobacter pylori (IgG) is a blood test used to detect antibodies to the bacterium H. pylori – a common cause of stomach ulcers and inflammation of the stomach lining. The infection can be present without causing symptoms, but in some people it leads to problems such as stomach pain, heartburn or nausea. The blood test helps determine whether you have been exposed to the bacterium and can provide important guidance when investigating stomach ulcers and long-term stomach problems.
If you suspect a stomach ulcer or long-term gastritis
H. pylori is a bacterium that infects the lining of the stomach and duodenum. The infection can be there for many years without causing symptoms, but sometimes it causes inflammation that leads to ulcers, especially in people who also use painkillers such as NSAIDs. An infection can also contribute to poor digestion, bloating and a feeling of being full quickly.
The Helicobacter pylori (IgG) blood test can be a first step in investigating whether an ongoing or previous infection with the bacteria is behind the symptoms. It is a simple test that measures the presence of IgG antibodies in the blood – a sign that the immune system has reacted to the bacterium.
Common symptoms of Helicobacter pylori infection
- Recurrent pain or discomfort in the upper part of the stomach
- Acid reflux or heartburn
- Feeling of fullness or early satiety
- Nausea or loss of appetite
- Black stools (may indicate bleeding from a stomach ulcer)
When is a blood test for Helicobacter pylori (IgG) recommended?
- If you suspect a stomach ulcer or gastritis
- If you have long-term dyspepsia or indigestion
- If you have had a previous stomach ulcer or if you use NSAIDs regularly
- If you have a family history of stomach cancer
The test is particularly useful as a screening or to rule out infection in people with diffuse or recurrent stomach problems. If the test shows a positive result, treatment with antibiotics and proton pump inhibitors (so-called triple therapy) may be appropriate.
Important to know
- The blood test shows whether you have or have had an infection - antibodies can remain for a very long time after the bacteria have been eliminated.
- It cannot therefore be used to check whether a treatment has been successful. Instead, a stool test or breath test is used.
- The test does not require fasting and can be taken at any time of the day.
Please note! If you have more severe symptoms such as weight loss, blood in the stool, difficulty swallowing or are over 50 with new symptoms, you should contact a doctor for further investigation, for example with a gastroscopy.
