C¹³ breath test
Breath tests are simple and non-invasive examinations that can be used to detect infection with the bacterium Helicobacter pylori. You breathe into a special breath bag twice and the exhaled gases are then analysed.
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When is a C¹³ breath test performed?
The C¹³ breath test is a non-invasive procedure for detecting infection with Helicobacter pylori. In addition, the breath test can be used to monitor Helicobacter pylori after drug therapy in order to confirm the success of the treatment.
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Procedure of the C¹³ breath test
At the start of the test, an initial breath sample is taken. You breathe into a bag which determines the initial concentration of C¹³ in your exhaled carbon dioxide. You are then given a test solution to drink which contains C¹³-labelled urea. After ingesting the test solution, there is a waiting period of about 30 minutes. During this time, the enzyme urease, which is produced by Helicobacter pylori, breaks down the urea into ammonia and C¹³-labelled carbon dioxide. This enters the lungs via the bloodstream and is exhaled.
After the waiting period, a second breath sample is taken. The two breath samples are then compared. An increased proportion of C¹³-labelled carbon dioxide in the second sample indicates the presence of Helicobacter pylori.
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Preparation
The examination must be performed on an empty stomach. Food or sugary drinks must not be consumed for at least six hours prior to the examination. Water may be consumed up to two hours before the examination.
In addition, antibiotics should be discontinued at least four weeks before the test and proton pump inhibitors (e.g. pantoprazole, omeprazole, esomeprazole) at least two weeks before the test, as they can distort the test results.