Practical diagnosis of Helicobacter pylori infection

When treatment of Helicobacter pylori infection is considered, a reliable diagnosis is essential. Different biopsy-based invasive diagnostic tests are available for diagnosis in the individual patient. Non-invasive tests are of value in epidemiological studies, and have a role in the follow-up of treatment. In this review the sensitivity, specificity and appropriateness of all available tests for the diagnosis of infection in the individual patient are discussed.