An evaluation of near-patient testing for Helicobacter pylori in general practice.

INTRODUCTION

A knowledge of Helicobacter pylori status is likely to be important in the management of patients presenting in general practice with dyspepsia. Near-patient testing kits for the detection of the H. pylori antibodies in whole blood, which provide results very quickly, are now available.

AIM

To determine the test characteristics of the Helisal Rapid Blood test in general practice and to describe the ways in which general practitioners incorporate the results of H. pylori testing into their management of patients with dyspepsia.

SETTING

Nine general practices in the United Kingdom.

PATIENTS

Consecutive patients presenting with dyspepsia in whom further investigation or referral was considered.

METHODS

A whole blood fingerstick sample was tested for H. pylori antibodies using the Helisal Rapid Blood test and a venous sample was obtained for subsequent laboratory testing using Helisal Serum and Helico G (ELISA) methods. Results of the three tests were compared and analysed. Clinical data were recorded by the general practitioners.

RESULTS

Full serological data were obtained on 123 patients, mean age 44.8 years. The sensitivity and specificity of the Helisal Rapid Blood test, compared with concordant results of the laboratory tests, were 83% and 78%, respectively. The prevalence of H. pylori-positive patients was 57%, with a positive predictive value of 83% and a negative predictive value of 78%. The results of the test had a significant impact on the clinical management of the patients in the study.

COMMENT

The Helisal Rapid Blood test is a useful and convenient method of improving the clinical care of patients with dyspepsia in general practice.