Description

Gastritis and peptic ulcers are conditions affecting the lining of the stomach and upper small intestine (duodenum). Both can cause similar gastrointestinal symptoms and are frequently associated with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection. This diagnostic panel evaluates key biomarkers related to inflammation, anemia, metabolic health, and the presence of H. pylori.

Common Symptoms May Include:

  • Nausea and/or vomiting
  • Upper abdominal pain or discomfort
  • Feeling full shortly after starting a meal
  • Bloating or excessive belching
  • Intolerance to certain foods (especially spicy or fatty)
  • Dark or tarry stools (a sign of gastrointestinal bleeding)

Condition Details

Gastritis

Gastritis is the inflammation of the stomach lining, which can be:

  • Acute (sudden onset) or chronic (long-term)
  • Caused by:
  • H. pylori infection
  • NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs)
  • Excessive alcohol intake
  • Tobacco use

Peptic Ulcer Disease

Peptic ulcers are open sores that develop on the lining of the stomach (gastric ulcers) or the duodenum (duodenal ulcers).

  • Commonly caused by:
  • H. pylori
  • Long-term NSAID use
  • Potential complications:
  • Internal bleeding
  • Perforation of the stomach or intestine
  • Increased risk of gastric cancer

Tests & Biomarkers Included

1. Complete Blood Count (CBC)

  • Biomarkers Assessed:
  • Hemoglobin & Hematocrit: To detect anemia from blood loss
  • White Blood Cell Count (WBC): Elevated levels may suggest inflammation or infection
  • Purpose: Assesses for bleeding, infection, or other systemic effects of gastrointestinal disease

2. Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP)

  • Biomarkers Assessed:
  • Electrolytes
  • Liver and kidney function markers
  • Glucose, calcium, total protein, and albumin
  • Purpose: Evaluates metabolic and organ function and screens for complications like dehydration or liver stress

3. Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) Urea Breath Test

  • Biomarker Assessed: Presence of H. pylori urease activity
  • Purpose: Detects active H. pylori infection, a key cause of both gastritis and ulcers
  • Method: The patient ingests a urea-containing substance. If H. pylori is present, it breaks down the urea, releasing detectable carbon dioxide in the breath.

Fasting Instructions

  • Fasting Required: Yes — fast for at least 1 hour before the breath test
  • Medication Restrictions: Avoid antibiotics, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), and bismuth-containing medications for 14 days prior, as they may affect test accuracy

Purpose of the Panel

This panel is ordered to:

  • Identify the underlying cause of upper abdominal symptoms
  • Detect active H. pylori infection
  • Assess for complications such as anemia, electrolyte imbalances, or organ dysfunction
  • Guide treatment decisions for gastritis or peptic ulcer disease

Fasting not required.