What is the purpose of a Urea Breath Test?

The Urea Breath Test is primarily used to diagnose peptic ulcer disease, particularly those caused by Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection. In this non-invasive test, the patient ingests a urea solution labeled with a specific carbon isotope. If H. pylori is present in the stomach, it breaks down the urea, releasing carbon dioxide, which is then absorbed into the bloodstream and exhaled through the lungs. The breath sample is analyzed to detect the labeled carbon, thereby confirming the presence of H. pylori.

This test is preferred due to its simplicity, quick results, and lack of the need for endoscopy or more invasive procedures to diagnose an H. pylori infection. Other options such as testing for liver function, measuring kidney efficiency, and evaluating cardiac function pertain to different sets of conditions and would involve other specific tests unrelated to the Urea Breath Test.