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Helicobacter pylori IgG Antibody (Serum/Plasma) – Serological Test

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

This test checks for antibodies to *Helicobacter pylori*, a bacteria linked to stomach issues like ulcers or inflammation. It helps determine if you’ve ever been exposed to the bacteria.

Quick summary

["This test assesses past infection with *Helicobacter pylori*, a common cause of stomach problems."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
16125-7
Short code
H pylori IgA Ser Ql
Synonyms
H pylori IgA Ser Ql
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

Why This Test Is Done

Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms like persistent stomach pain, nausea, or unexplained weight loss. It’s also used before starting treatment for stomach ulcers or after an eradication therapy to confirm the bacteria was cleared.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a blood sample (usually from your arm) in a clinic or lab. The test is quick and typically done while you’re sitting or lying down.

What the Test Results Mean

If you have antibodies to *H. pylori*, it suggests you’ve been infected at some point. However, having antibodies doesn’t always mean you currently have an active infection or symptoms. This test alone cannot confirm active infection or rule out other stomach conditions.

Possible Results and Next Steps

A positive result means you likely had exposure to *H. pylori* in the past. If symptoms persist, further testing (like an upper endoscopy or breath test) may be needed to check for ongoing infection or other issues. A negative result means you likely haven’t been infected recently, but other causes of symptoms should still be evaluated.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

H. pylori IgG Antibody

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive result mean?
A positive result indicates you’ve likely been exposed to *Helicobacter pylori* at some point, but it doesn’t confirm whether you have an active infection or symptoms. This test is often used as a baseline or after treatment to assess past exposure rather than current infection status.
Can this test replace an endoscopy or breath test?
No, this test alone cannot diagnose an active *H. pylori* infection. If you have symptoms like stomach pain or ulcers, your doctor may recommend additional tests (like an endoscopy with biopsy or a urea breath test) to confirm active infection.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are usually available within 1–3 business days, depending on your lab. Your doctor will discuss the findings with you during your follow-up visit.
  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