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Helicobacter pylori IgA Antibody, Serum (Qualitative Immunoassay)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test checks for the presence of antibodies to *Helicobacter pylori*, a bacteria linked to stomach ulcers and other digestive issues. It helps determine if you’ve been exposed to the bacteria.

Quick summary

["This test helps diagnose past or current infection by *Helicobacter pylori* through your blood serum."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
7901-2
Short code
H pylori IgA Ser-aCnc
Synonyms
H pylori IgA Ser-aCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
82784
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What This Test Measures

The test detects IgA antibodies, a type of immune protein your body produces in response to *Helicobacter pylori*. If antibodies are present, it suggests you’ve been exposed to the bacteria at some point.

Why It’s Ordered

Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms like stomach pain, heartburn, or unexplained nausea, or if they suspect *Helicobacter pylori* infection after other tests (like a breath or stool test).

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a blood sample, usually drawn from your arm in a clinic or lab setting. The process takes a few minutes.

What the Results Mean

A positive result indicates past or current exposure to *Helicobacter pylori*, but it doesn’t confirm active infection. Results are qualitative (positive/negative) and don’t provide a numeric value.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

H. pylori IgA Antibody (Serum)

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive result mean?
A positive result suggests your body has detected *Helicobacter pylori* antibodies, meaning you’ve likely been exposed to the bacteria at some time. This doesn’t always mean you’re currently infected, so follow-up testing may be needed.
Can I get this test at home?
No, this test requires a blood sample collected in a clinical setting by a healthcare professional.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy