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Spinghar Momand 50-Bed Curative Hospital (the Teaching Hospital of Spinghar University) has installed and commenced operation of a new digital Urea Breath Test (UBT) machine in its laboratory department for the detection of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), a bacterium that infects the stomach.
The Urea Breath Test is a non-invasive and accurate diagnostic procedure used to detect active H. pylori infection and confirm successful eradication of the bacterium following treatment.
During the test, the patient is administered a special substance containing Carbon-14-labeled urea (¹⁴C-Urea). If H. pylori is present in the stomach, the bacterium produces an enzyme called urease, which breaks down urea and generates carbon dioxide (CO₂). The resulting labeled CO₂ is then measured in the patient's breath. The test generally demonstrates sensitivity and specificity exceeding 90–95%.
Important Test Preparation Requirements:
Fast for at least 6 hours before the test. Drinking a small amount of water is generally permitted.
Discontinue proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), which reduce stomach acid, at least two weeks before the test.
Discontinue antibiotics and bismuth-containing medications at least four weeks before the test.
Avoid eating, smoking, and chewing gum on the morning of the test.
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