1. What is HELICOBACTER PYLORI - IgM (ELISA)?

HELICOBACTER PYLORI - IgM (ELISA) is a blood test used to detect IgM antibodies against Helicobacter pylori using the ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay) technique. IgM is the first antibody produced in response to an infection, indicating early or recent infection.

2. Why is this test done?

This test is performed to:

• Detect recent or acute H. pylori infection.
• Evaluate patients with new onset of gastric symptoms like upper abdominal pain, bloating, nausea.
• Investigate suspected cases of gastritis, peptic ulcer disease, or duodenitis.
• Aid in differentiating between active and past infection when combined with IgG and IgA testing.

3. Normal Range

• Negative / Non-reactive: No significant levels of IgM antibodies detected.
• Reference ranges may vary by lab, but typically:
  • < 20 U/mL: Negative
  • 20–30 U/mL: Borderline/Equivocal
  • > 30 U/mL: Positive (Suggests recent infection)

4. Overview & Clinical Interpretation

• IgM is typically detectable within 1–2 weeks of infection.
• IgM antibodies decline rapidly after the infection resolves.

5. Associated Organs

• Stomach (gastric mucosa)
• Duodenum

6. Associated Conditions

• Acute gastritis
• Peptic ulcer disease
• Duodenal ulcers
• Non-ulcer dyspepsia
• Upper GI infections
• Rarely: associated with gastric cancer or MALT lymphoma (long-term chronic infections)

7. Related / Follow-up Tests

To confirm or evaluate infection more thoroughly:

• H. pylori IgG (chronic infection)
• H. pylori IgA (mucosal immunity)
• H. pylori stool antigen test
• Urea breath test (gold standard for active infection)
• Endoscopy + Biopsy with rapid urease test / histology
• Complete Blood Count (CBC) (look for anemia due to ulcers)
• Fecal occult blood test (FOBT) (if GI bleeding is suspected)

8. Fasting Required?

• No fasting required.
• Blood can be drawn at any time of the day.

9. Summary