The most common tests used to diagnose peptice ulcers:
Testing for H. pylori
Confirming the presence of H. pylori is important once the doctor has diagnosed an ulcer because elimination of the bacteria is likely to cure ulcer disease. Blood, breath, and stomach tissue tests may be performed to detect the presence of H. pylori.
Blood tests
Blood tests such as the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and quick office-based tests identify and measure H. pylori antibodies. The body produces antibodies against H. pylori in an attempt to fight the bacteria. The advantages of blood tests are their low cost and availability to doctors. The disadvantage is the possibility of false positive results in patients previously treated for ulcers since the levels of H. pylori antibodies fall slowly. Several blood tests have FDA approval.
Barium X-rays (also called upper GI series)
Barium x-rays (also referred to as a Barium Swallow) is an examination of the esophagus and stomach using a solution with barium. The patient drinks the solution, which coat the walls of the upper digestive tract so that they may be examined under x- ray. Barium swallows are used to identify ulcers, and any abnormalities of the upper gastrointestinal tract such as tumors, hernias, pouches, strictures, and swallowing difficulties.
