06-07-2008, 03:42 PM
A 32-year-old man is evaluated because of upper abdominal pain of 2 years™ duration. His pain has been intermittent and improves with antacids, eating, and over-the-counter H2-receptor antagonists. His latest episode began 2 weeks ago but resolved when proton pump inhibitor therapy was initiated at that time. He has not been tested or treated for Helicobacter pylori infection in the past.
Considering both cost and accuracy, which of the following is the best screening test to detect H. pylori infection?
( A ) Urea breath test
( B ) Serum or whole-blood antibody test
( C ) Endoscopic rapid urease test
( D ) Endoscopic biopsy
Considering both cost and accuracy, which of the following is the best screening test to detect H. pylori infection?
( A ) Urea breath test
( B ) Serum or whole-blood antibody test
( C ) Endoscopic rapid urease test
( D ) Endoscopic biopsy