How to measure Helicobacter pylori in children

The detection methods of Helicobacter pylori in children include urea breath test, gastroscopy and biopsy, stool antigen detection, serological detection, etc. 1. Urea breath test This is a more commonly used detection method. When a child takes urea labeled with carbon-13 or carbon-14, the urease produced by Helicobacter pylori breaks down the urea to produce carbon dioxide if it is present in the stomach. Infection can be determined by detecting the labeled carbon dioxide in the exhaled air. This method is accurate, relatively noninvasive and simple. 2. Gastroscopy and biopsy When gastroscopy is performed, gastric mucosa tissue can be taken for pathological examination at the same time to directly observe the condition of gastric mucosa, and Helicobacter pylori can be detected by special staining methods. This method can not only determine whether there is infection, but also can diagnose stomach diseases, but it is an invasive test, which may bring some discomfort to children, usually only when necessary. 3. Fecal antigen detection to detect Helicobacter pylori antigen in children's feces. This method is easy to operate and requires relatively low cooperation for children. 4. Serological testing determines infection by detecting antibodies against Helicobacter pylori in the blood. However, this method cannot distinguish between current infection and previous infection, and is generally not the preferred test method. When selecting a test method, it is necessary to comprehensively consider factors such as the child's age, degree of cooperation, and clinical symptoms. At the same time, no matter which test method is used, it should be carried out in professional medical institutions to ensure the accuracy and reliability of test results.

If the test results show that H. pylori infection, individualized treatment should be developed according to the specific situation, including whether immediate treatment is needed and the choice of treatment drugs. In addition, if there is H. pylori infection in family members, it should also be tested and treated at the same time to reduce the risk of reinfection. At the same time, attention should be paid to cultivating good diet and hygiene habits in children, such as washing hands before meals and after defecation, to help prevent H. pylori infection.