NON-ENDOSCOPIC METHOD TO OBTAIN HELICOBACTER-PYLORI FOR CULTURE

A sampling method to collect samples for Helicobacter pylori culture t hat is easier than endoscopy would be useful. We used a capsule attach ed to a highly absorbent nylon string, which is swallowed to obtain ga stric secretions. Antral biopsy and string specimens, sequentially obt ained from 36 adults with clinically suspected ulcer or gastric diseas e were cultured. 9 (25%) patients were negative in both tests; 18 (50% ) were positive by both methods; 6 (17%) were biopsy positive and stri ng-test negative; and 3 (8%) were biopsy negative and string-test posi tive. The new test is useful, simple, and causes little discomfort.