Métodos diagnósticos para la detección de infección por Helicobacter pylori. ¿Cuál y cuándo deben solicitarse?

Gastric infection by Helicobacter pylori has a variable prevalence worldwide. In Latin America, it can exceed 50% of infected people. It is associated with peptic ulcer, gastric cancer, MALT lymphoma, immune thrombocytopenic purpura, among other pathologies. There no optimal diagnostic method, and its presence be detected both invasive methods that require an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, non-invasive methods. Within the invasive, we have rapid urease test, histology, molecular tests such as polymerase chain reaction culture. On hand, include breath antigen in stools, stools serology. Depending on clinical scenario, test to used, benefits weaknesses should known. important consider age patient, their cancer risk factors, need for endoscopy this or another reason, availability cost, others.