H. pylori antibody test
Quick answer: This blood test looks for antibodies against Helicobacter pylori, a bacterium that can cause stomach ulcers and gastritis. Doctors may order it when you have indigestion or ulcer symptoms, though breath or stool tests are preferred to show a current infection.
- SampleBlood
- TakesAbout 5 minutes
- Before the testNo special preparation is usually needed.
How the test is done
- 1A nurse confirms your details
- 2A vein inside your elbow is cleaned
- 3A needle collects a tube of blood
- 4The lab tests for IgG antibodies to H. pylori
What your results can mean
Reading your report
Antibodies can stay positive after the infection is treated, so a positive result does not always mean current infection.
If the result is outside the usual range
A positive result shows you have had H. pylori at some point, which can cause gastritis and ulcers. Antibodies can stay after treatment, so a breath or stool test is used to check for a current infection.
Who usually has this test
People with ongoing indigestion, upper belly pain or a history of ulcers, mainly when breath or stool tests are not possible.
Risks and aftercare
There are no after-effects beyond possible slight bruising.
Names and options
Also called: H pylori IgG, H pylori IgM, Helicobacter pylori blood test
Options
- IgG
- IgM
- Antibody
Listed by the hospital as
- HELICOBACTER PYLORI IGG, SERUM
- HELICOBACTER PYLORI IGM, SERUM
- H PYLORI ANTIBODY
Questions about this test
Is H. pylori common in India?
Yes. A large share of adults in India carry H. pylori, and most have no symptoms. Not everyone who tests positive needs treatment.
Can this blood test check if treatment worked?
No. Antibodies can stay for months or years after cure. A breath or stool test is used to confirm the infection has gone.
Do I need to stop acid medicines before this blood test?
Acid medicines affect breath and stool tests more than blood tests. Do not stop any medicine on your own; ask your doctor.
Related tests
Tamara Hospital & IVF Centre, Rajajinagar
34/3, 10th Cross Road, opp. Vardhaka Sardar Patel School, 1st N Block, 2nd Stage, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru 560010
The hospital is open 24 hours. Call before you come to check the timing for your scan or sample collection.
Get directions ↗IVF Pulse fertility care at Tamara Hospital →
Reception
Waiting area
IVF lab
This page explains each test in general terms so you know what to expect. It is not medical advice: your doctor decides which tests you need and what your results mean. Reference ranges differ between laboratories. Updated 4 November 2026.