Understanding the 13C Urea Breath Test: A Comprehensive Overview with Headway’s C13 UBT Kit
The breath test urea C13 is a non-invasive diagnostic tool used to detect Helicobacter pylori (Hp) infection, a common cause of stomach ulcers. Headway’s C13 UBT test kit provides a reliable and accurate method to measure Hp presence by analyzing the carbon dioxide (CO2) in exhaled breath. This test has become an essential part of clinical practice due to its simplicity and effectiveness.
What is the C13 UBT Test?
The C13 UBT test involves the ingestion of a special 13C urea capsule, followed by breath sampling at two time intervals. The presence of Helicobacter pylori in the stomach leads to the breakdown of the urea into carbon dioxide, which is then absorbed into the bloodstream and exhaled through the lungs. By measuring the levels of 13CO2 in the breath, doctors can determine whether a patient is infected with Hp.
Step-by-Step Process of the 13C Urea Breath Test
Collecting the Initial Breath Sample
Before starting, the patient should fast for at least two hours. The first step in the process involves collecting the 0-minute exhaled breath sample by having the patient slowly blow into the exhalation bag provided in Headway‘s C13 UBT test kit. This sample is sealed and ready for analysis.
Dosing the 13C Urea Capsule
The patient then swallows one 13C urea capsule with a small amount of cool water. After ingestion, the patient waits for 30 minutes to allow for the urea to interact with any Helicobacter pylori present in the stomach.
Collecting the 30-Minute Breath Sample
After 30 minutes, the second breath sample is collected. The patient blows into a second bag, and this sample is also sealed for analysis.
Analyzing the Results
The two breath samples are tested for 13CO2 levels. A result of δ‰ ≥ 4.0 indicates a positive Helicobacter pylori infection.
Conclusion
The breath test urea C13 is an invaluable tool in the diagnosis of Helicobacter pylori infection. With Headway’s advanced testing kit, healthcare professionals can quickly and accurately assess the presence of Hp, helping to ensure timely and effective treatment for patients. Whether for routine screening or diagnostic purposes, this simple breath test offers high accuracy and convenience.
