H.Pylori False Negative ?

[nhagerty74]

I have a stomach ulcer that will not heal no matter what medicine I'm given.  It's been about a year.  I was given a blood test and biopsy during endoscopy for h.pylori and both were negative.  I read that there is a possibility of false negative test results if the person has been taking acid blocking medications.  I had been taking Protonix around the time of both tests and am wondering if I might actually have it and that's why protonix, dexilant, carafate, and zantac have failed to work.  Nothing will get rid of the pain.  I was told it was a small erosion compatible with gastritis and looked very treatable, but I'm losing hope.  Anyone familiar with whether the false negative could be a possibility?  I'm sinking into depression that I'll probably need medication for also.

[FTB4]

Yes,Acid pump prohibitors can cause a false negative on a test for Hpylori
it supresses the bacteria because it causes an increase in stomach acid and thrives in it, when the acid pumps are shut down most of the bacteria die off or hide out in the intestine, so a stool or blood sample will not pick it up. I had an endoscopy and my biopsy came out negative, my MD had me stay off the Prilosec for two weeks, later they did a blood test for the Hpylori bacteria and it showed positive. It would be a good idea to begin taking a good brand of Probiotics, even when your MD starts treatment for the Hpylori, Probiotics will replace the good stomach bacteria that the antibiotic treatment will kill along with the bad, this is what causes the Hpylori to awaken to begin with, most people have Hpylori, it remains dormant in the stomach until something causes a kill off of the good bacteria, then the Hpylori take over and causes all the stomach and esophagus pain from the acid burning the lining, Which is what ulcers are caused from. You can get a good Probiotic with a high biotic count at a local health food store. Best Regards FTB4

[S. Kaul, MD]

Hi there!

False negative rates may increase for H. Pylori detection while on PPIs and usually an interval of 3-14 days is advisable before conducting a test. Other possible causes of non-healing ulcers include chronic infections, inflammations, stress/ anxiety, elevated acid levels etc. I would suggest a detailed evaluation by a gastroenterologist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.
Hope this is helpful.

Take care!