Using the Urea Breath Test in geriatric patients

The prevalence of H. pylori increases with age.  This phenomenon is thought to be due to increased use of medications and decreased secretion of protective prostaglandins making it easier for H. pylori to colonize.  The other problem faced by the elderly is a higher rate of eradication failure.  The elderly tend to be more antibiotic resistant and less compliant.  This is why it is strongly recommended that elderly patients be tested after their treatment ends to confirm eradication.  The urea breath test is an excellent test for this purpose because it is extremely accurate (greater than 95% sensitivity and specificity) non-invasive, requires no fasting and takes only 15 minutes.  For more information visit /hydrogen-breath-test/healthcare-providers/ubt/