Effect of PPIs on Stool DNA Test for H. Pylori

This prospective, self-controlled clinical study aims to evaluate the impact of proton pump inhibitor (PPI) use on the accuracy of stool DNA testing for Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) and to assess the applicability of this test in patients receiving PPI therapy. Patients requiring long-term PPI treatment and meeting the inclusion criteria were enrolled. After at least four weeks of PPI therapy, a stool DNA test was performed, along with collection of gastric mucosal samples via gastroscopy for tissue PCR, histology, and rapid urease testing, as well as H. pylori antibody detection. Subsequently, PPI treatment was discontinued for four weeks, after which a 13C-urea breath test and a repeat stool DNA test were conducted. By comparing the sensitivity, specificity, and consistency of stool DNA testing before and after PPI discontinuation, this study aims to characterize the interference of PPIs with the test results, thereby providing evidence to support improvements in H. pylori diagnostic methods.