Indications and positivity rates of 14C-UBT for <i>Helicobacter pylori</i> detection

Abstract

Background: In order to diagnose H. pylori infection, the 14C-UBT (14 Carbon Urea Breath Test) has become a popular non-invasive diagnostic method. Understanding the 14C-UBT indications and the associated positivity rates can offer helpful insights on the frequency of H. pylori infection in various clinical settings. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of H. pylori infection as determined by the 14C-UBT and to analyze the causes of the patterns seen in various clinical presentations.

Methods: From 2012 through 2019, pertinent data, including biodata, symptoms, and test results, were obtained from the authorized register. Statistical software for social sciences (SPSS) v22 was used to examine the data once they had been entered into a spreadsheet.

Results: The findings revealed that the prevalence of H. pylori infection was highest in people between the ages of 41 and 50, with 45 of 167 patients testing positive. The most frequent reason for performing the 14C-UBT was dyspepsia, with a high positive rate of almost 63.29%. This result can be related to the recognized relationship between H. pylori and chronic gastritis and peptic ulcer disease, both of which are known to produce dyspeptic symptoms.

Conclusion: In addition to highlighting dyspepsia as the most frequent indication for the 14C-UBT, this study sheds light on the greater frequency of H. pylori infection in the 41–50-year age group. The diagnosis and treatment of illnesses linked to H. pylori can be aided by understanding these patterns and relationships, ultimately leading to better patient care.