C13 BREATH TEST TECHNIQUE: SAFE AND ACCURATE METHOD FOR DIAGNOSING STOMACH H. PYLORI BACTERIA

Among digestive diseases, gastric and duodenal ulcers are one of the most common and frequent problems in many people. One of the main causes of this disease is the bacteria Helicobacter pylori (HP) . HP bacteria can survive in the stomach for a long time, causing ulcers, and even increasing the risk of stomach cancer if not detected and treated promptly. To diagnose the presence of HP bacteria, the C13 breath test is considered a modern, safe and non-invasive method.

1. What is the C13 breath test technique?

The C13 breath test (also known as the Urea Breath Test - UBT C13 ) is a non-invasive diagnostic method used to detect the presence of Helicobacter pylori (HP) bacteria in the stomach. This technique is based on measuring the amount of carbon dioxide gas containing the C13 isotope after the patient drinks a solution of urea labeled with C13.

HP bacteria produce the enzyme urease, which is capable of breaking down urea into ammonia and CO2 gas. If HP bacteria are present in the stomach, urea will be broken down and produce CO2 gas containing the isotope C13. By analyzing the amount of CO2 gas in the patient's breath after drinking the solution, the doctor can determine the presence of HP bacteria.

2. Procedure for performing C13 breath test

The C13 breath test is performed quickly and simply, without causing pain or discomfort to the patient. The procedure includes the following steps:

• Step 1: The patient is instructed to blow the first breath into a bag to measure the baseline CO2 level.
• Step 2: The patient drinks a urea solution labeled C13 . This solution is safe and does not harm the body.
• Step 3: After about 15-30 minutes, the patient continues to breathe into another bag to take a sample to measure the amount of CO2.
• Step 4: Breath samples are sent to the laboratory to analyze the amount of C13 in the CO2 gas. The results will indicate the presence of HP bacteria or not.

3. Uses of C13 breath test technique

Accurate diagnosis of HP bacteria in the stomach

The C13 breath test is a rapid and accurate diagnostic method for detecting HP bacteria. The sensitivity and specificity of this method are high, helping to accurately detect HP bacteria without the need for invasive interventions such as gastroscopy.

Check the effectiveness of HP eradication treatment

In addition to detecting HP bacteria initially, the C13 breath test is also used to monitor the effectiveness of treatment after the patient has completed the HP eradication regimen. After about 4-6 weeks of treatment, the patient will be re-examined with the C13 breath test to determine whether the HP bacteria has been completely eliminated.

Safe and non-invasive

One of the biggest advantages of the C13 breath test is that it is safe and non-invasive . The patient does not have to undergo any uncomfortable or painful interventions. It does not require endoscopy, does not require tissue sampling, and does not cause severe impact on the digestive system. This is especially beneficial for patients who are afraid of invasive procedures or who are unable to undergo endoscopy.

Save time, get fast results

The C13 breath test is quick, taking only about 30 minutes, and patients can receive results in a short time. This helps doctors make quick and timely treatment decisions, especially in cases where disease progression needs to be monitored.

4. Who should take the C13 breath test?

The C13 breath test should be performed on people at risk of HP infection or with symptoms related to gastric ulcers such as:

• Upper abdominal pain , burning pain or discomfort.
• Heartburn, belching , or a burning sensation in the esophagus.
• Family history of stomach disease or stomach cancer .
• Have been diagnosed with gastric ulcer or chronic gastritis.
• Follow-up is needed after HP eradication treatment.

Additionally, the C13 breath test is also recommended for people who have symptoms of indigestion, bloating , or digestive problems without an obvious cause.

5. Benefits of C13 breath test compared to other methods

Compared with other HP diagnostic methods such as gastroscopy or stool testing , the C13 breath test has outstanding advantages such as:

• No need for endoscopy : Patients do not have to undergo uncomfortable endoscopy, especially useful for those who are afraid of endoscopy.
• Painless, no discomfort : This method causes absolutely no pain or discomfort to the patient.
• Fast execution time : Results can be available after 30 minutes, helping doctors quickly develop a treatment plan.

6. Conclusion

The C13 breath test is a modern, safe and effective method for diagnosing and monitoring gastric HP bacteria. With its non-invasive nature, high accuracy and quick execution time, this is the optimal choice for patients who need to check their stomach health or monitor after treatment.

If you have any signs related to your stomach or are at risk of HP infection, consult your doctor and perform a C13 breath test to protect your digestive health.