A 5 YEAR RETRO ANALYSIS OF HELICOBACTER PYLORI INFECTION DIAGNOSED WITH CLOT-TEST, ELISA AND HISTOPATHOLOGY

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to compare, the results of tests for Helicobacter pylori detections as determined by ELISA, Clo-test and histopathology. We have assessed 1360 patients (range: 1 to 25 years) with abdominal pain, from 1991-1996. Helicobacter pylori titer was positive in 159 cases (12%) using ELISA. In 335 patients (25%), who underwent endoscopy examination and biopsy for urease test (Clo-test), 24 Patients (7%) were positive. In 18 patients, who had positive Clo-test results, four (22%) showed evidence of Helicobacter pylori by routine H&E histology evaluation. Additional Giemsa and Silver staining were performed on 7 Clo-test positive, ELISA negative and no evidence of Helicobacter pylori on routine histology evaluation. Two of the patients exhibited Helicobacter pylori organism using this special staining technique. The data suggests the reliance on routine H&E staining for detection of Helicobacter pylori may be less accurate than special staining techniques. Clo-test appears to be a useful test in conjunction with serology for diagnosing patients of Helicobacter pylori.