Helicobacter Pylori Test - Collection Instructions
Helicobacter pylori is a bacterial infection associated with chronic stomach inflammation which can significantly increase the risk of ulcer formation. This stool test is a non-invasive way to detect the bacteria. It’s convenience and accuracy make it the preferred method of detection. Testing package is included.
INSTRUCTIONS FOR HELICOBACTER PYLORI TEST
Please read these instructions carefully before beginning the collection process.
Objective
To collect one soft stool specimen when the patient is most symptomatic for detecting Helicobacter pylori.
Preparation Before Collection
- Medication Restrictions
- Allow at least one week after stopping antibiotics, antiparasitics, antimalarials, probiotics, or medications like Pepto-Bismol before collecting the sample.
- Do not use castor oil or liquid petrolatum or undergo radiological exams involving barium sulfate before collection.
- Consult your physician before altering or discontinuing medications.
- Safety Precautions
- The stool specimen may contain infectious parasites, bacteria, or viruses. Handle carefully to avoid contamination.
- For Constipation
- Use non-absorbable high-fiber or herbal laxatives (e.g., Miralax) to produce a soft specimen. Avoid laxatives with antiparasitic or anti-infective ingredients
Collection Instructions
- Prepare the Collection Area
- Use the sampling sheet provided to line the toilet seat or bowl, ensuring the notched area is positioned facing the front of the toilet.
- For detailed instructions on preparing the collection area, refer to the included instruction sheet.
- Important: Do not allow the stool to come into contact with water or urine.
- Collect the Stool Sample
- Use the spoon attached to the vial’s cap to collect small amounts of stool, focusing on areas that are slightly watery or bloody if present.
- For diarrhea, collect the latter part of the stool.
- Important: Do not fill the vial beyond the marked fill line. Overfilling can compromise results.
- Secure the Sample
- Replace and tighten the spoon/cap to ensure no leakage.
- Fill out the label on the vial with the required information.
- Place the vial into the resealable bag provided in the original shipping package.
- Complete the Requisition Form
- Fill out the enclosed requisition form completely. Samples without the completed form will not be processed.
- If using a credit card (Mastercard, Visa, or Discover; American Express is not accepted), include payment details on the requisition form.
- Package and Ship the Sample
- Package the vial with the freezer gel packs in the original shipping package.
- Ship the specimen to PCI with a 2-3 day delivery service
- Send to PCI 11445 E. Via Linda #2-419, Scottsdale, AZ 85259- This address is a UPS store.
- If there is a delay between collection and shipping, freeze the sample to maintain its integrity.
- Shipment of samples is the responsibility of the patient. PCI does not provide return labels.
Results
- Results will be sent to your physician or practitioner, if you have one, within 2–3 weeks of receiving the sample (excluding weekends and holidays).
- If you have registered as a patient on our website, you will receive your results through the patient portal.
- If you have not registered, you must create a patient account on our website to access your results.
Key Reminders
- Ensure the sample is not contaminated with water or urine.
- Do not fill the vial beyond the marked line.
- Use the freezer gel packs and store the sample appropriately if shipping is delayed.
For additional questions, visit the Contact Us section of www.parasitetesting.com.