H. Pylori Antigen Test Kit

What Does This Test Do?

This kit uses a small stool sample to detect H. pylori antigens — proteins produced by the bacteria themselves. Because it detects the bacteria directly rather than your body's antibody response to it, this type of test (known as an HpSA, or H. pylori Stool Antigen test) is considered more useful for identifying a current, active infection.

This is an important distinction from blood antibody tests: antibodies can remain in the bloodstream long after an infection has been successfully treated, which can lead to misleading results. Stool antigen testing avoids this limitation.

The test uses immunochromatography — the same technology found in many rapid lateral flow tests — to detect H. pylori antigens in your sample. It is a qualitative test, meaning it gives a positive or negative result rather than a numerical measurement.

Results are available within 10 minutes.

What's in the Kit?

Each kit contains:

• 1 x test cassette
• 1 x specimen collection tube with extraction buffer
• 1 x stool collection paper
• 1 x package insert with full instructions

You will also need a timer (such as your phone) to read the result at exactly 10 minutes.

How to Use

Before you begin, allow the test cassette to reach room temperature if it has been stored in the fridge. Do not open the foil pouch until you are ready to perform the test.

Step 1: Collect your stool sample

1. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
2. Place the stool collection paper in the toilet bowl before use, following the instructions printed on the paper. Alternatively, use a clean container. Make sure neither the specimen nor the container touches the toilet water or any contaminating surfaces.
3. Unscrew the blue cap of the specimen collection tube. Using the applicator, stab into the stool sample at least 3 different sites. Do not scoop — stab only.
4. Re-fasten the blue cap and shake the tube vigorously to mix the sample with the extraction buffer. Leave for 2 minutes.

Step 2: Perform the test

1. Remove the test cassette from the foil pouch and place it on a clean, flat surface. Use it as soon as possible after opening.
2. Open the white cap of the collection tube and break off the tip.
3. Invert the tube and add exactly 2 full drops of the extracted sample to the specimen well marked S on the test cassette. Start your timer immediately. Avoid trapping air bubbles.
4. Wait for the coloured lines to appear. Read your result at exactly 10 minutes. Results read after this time may be inaccurate.

Reading Your Results

Read the result at exactly 10 minutes. Look at the C (Control) and T (Test) line regions on the cassette.

Positive result — two lines appear (C and T)

A line appears in both the C (control) region and the T (test) region. This indicates that H. pylori antigens have been detected in your stool sample. Any shade of colour in the T region counts as a positive result — even a faint line.

Negative result — one line appears (C only)

A line appears only in the C (control) region. No line appears at T. H. pylori antigens were not detectable in your sample.

Invalid result — no line at C

No line appears in the C (control) region. The test has not worked correctly, most likely due to insufficient sample volume or an error in technique.

Important Information

• If you are currently taking antibiotics or have recently completed a course of antibiotics, the concentration of H. pylori antigens in your stool may be reduced. This can affect the accuracy of the result. Wait until you have finished antibiotic treatment before testing, or speak to your GP.
• If you are taking a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) such as omeprazole or lansoprazole, you should ideally stop taking it at least 2 weeks before performing this test. PPIs can suppress H. pylori antigens and may produce a false negative result. Do not stop any prescribed medication without speaking to your GP first.
• Do not use the kit after the expiry date printed on the packaging.
• Store the kit at 2–30°C in its sealed pouch, away from excess moisture. Do not freeze.
• Do not dismantle the test cassette or touch the test window.
• Keep out of reach of children.
• Single use only — do not reuse.

Frequently Asked Questions