Development of a Method for Assessing Helicobacter pylori Activity Based on Exhaled Air Composition with the Use of an Array of Piezoelectric Chemical Sensors

Abstract

Currently, patients with stomach and duodenum diseases should be examined using diagnostic tests for Helicobacter pylori infection. Diagnostic methods available in the arsenal of clinicians make it possible to identify Helicobacter pylori in almost 100% of cases. A competent approach to the selection of a diagnostic test provides high-quality, timely, and economical verification of the pathogen. The paper provides information on the currently available diagnostic procedures for the detection of Helicobacter pylori infection and the results of the diagnosis of helicobacteriosis based on the activity of urease in saliva. The main area of research is the development of an analytical method based on the quantitative determination of ammonia and the detection of amines and aliphatic acids in exhaled air using signals from an array of diverse piezoelectric chemical sensors. Simple data processing algorithms were applied, and qualitative and quantitative decision-making criteria were substantiated. The method of analysis using chemical sensors is characterized by high specificity (96% for ammonia) and sensitivity (90%); it does not require special sample preparation and is indispensable in large-scale studies and personal monitoring and for choosing treatment tactics.