: Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is one of the most widespread infectious
organisms in the world that is related to many gastrointestinal diseases. There are
numerous techniques available at the present time for identifying infections caused by H.
pylori, each has advantages and disadvantages. Objectives: To compare invasive versus
noninvasive techniques used for diagnosis of H. pylori infections. Methodology: The
study was performed on 100 patients complaining of gastrointestinal problems
undergoing GIT endoscopy admitted to Gastroenterology Department, Benha University
Hospital. Two samples of gastric biopsy were taken from each patient ; one used for
bacteriological culture and one used for Polymerase chain reaction (PCR), 100 stool
samples were taken for stool antigen test (SAT), and 100 serum samples for EnzymeLinked Immunosorbent Assay ( ELISA). Results: Out of 100 biopsy samples, 71 (71%)
had been positive for PCR, 70 (70 %) had been positive for culture. Out of 100 stool
sample, 64 (64%) had been positive for SAT. Out of 100 serum samples, 68 (68%) had
been positive for ELISA. In comparison with PCR, the culture showed 98.6 % sensitivity,
89.7 % specificity, and total accuracy of 96% then SAT with 88% accuracy and ELISA
showed 86% accuracy. Conclusion: Considering PCR as the gold standard method for
H. pylori diagnosis, the culture showed the highest overall performance followed by SAT
and ELISA. |
