Methods to detect Helicobacter pylori: from culture to molecular biology.

Since the first successful attempts of growing Helicobacter pylori, a variety of tests for detecting infection with this pathogen has been described. These tests may be classified as invasive and noninvasive or minimally invasive tests. Conventional tests such as histology and culture still play a major role in the diagnostic spectrum. Culture continues to be the only test allowing for a comprehensive analysis of pathogen characteristics and susceptibility to antibiotics. Urea breath test is the gold standard among noninvasive tests, with both stool antigen test and serology as appropriate substitutes or alternatives in specific situations. Among the multiple potential uses of molecular tests, noninvasive determination of resistance to antibiotics is of particular interest.