Diagnosis

During the last year several comparative evaluations have been made of diff erent invasive and non-invasive tests for the detection of Helicobacter pyl ori, which have re-emphazised the fact that no single diagnostic test is op timal. Their use should be guided by the clinical setting(s) in which they are requested as well as by other factors such as local availability and ec onomic considerations. In general however, H. pylori diagnostics has reache d a level providing an excellent basis for use in clinical practice, Curt O pin Gastroenterol 15 (suppl 1):S5-S9 (C) 1999 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins .