H. Pylori Testing - FOI Response Register

Under the Freedom of Information Act, I would like to request answers to the following questions in relation to H.Pylori testing in hospitals throughout your Trust please.

1. How do you test for H. Pylori infection during upper GI endoscopies ? Please specify what tests you use, eg, Culture Biopsy (Pathology), Urease.

Culture Biopsy

2. How many H. Pylori tests are performed in a typical month?

12 -15

3. Who decides to purchase H. Pylori tests? 

Department Manager

4. Which H.Pylori test(s) do you use most?

Pronto Dry

5. Why do you use these tests most?

Convenient and easy to use, rapid result.

6. Where in the hospital is the test usually done, and by whom?

Theatre by surgeon and theatre team

7. What medication do you use to treat H, Pylori? Please give drug name and brand.

The British National Formulary provides guidance on regimens which are used but these are tailored to individual patient clinical situation and need.

8. What is the typical cost per test? Please give an estimate for unbranded or laboratory own tests.

Pronto Dry: £120 per box of 50 excluding VAT

9. Do you use a Urease test for H. Pylori? If not, what type of test do you use? Eg breath test, culture, etc.

See response to Q4

10. If you use a Urease test for H. Pylori, what type of Urease H. Pylori test do you use? Please give drug name and brand

See response to Q4