A Service of the Hamilton Regional Laboratory
Laboratory Test Information
Committed to Quality
The HRLMP is committed to providing high quality laboratory results for our clients.
As one of the largest integrated laboratory medicine programs in Canada we strive to produce the right results the first time on every sample we receive.
Test Name:
Helicobacter pylori Culture and PCR
Alternate Name(s): HP, H. Pylori
Test Description: PCR method for detection of Helicobacter pylori and resistance to Clarithromycin and Fluoroquinolones.
Requisition Form: Download requisition form for: R_708112 (2025-12-09) - LRC Microbiology Requisition - Update - Fillable.pdf
Specimen Requirement: Gastric biopsy or Fundus biopsy or Antrum biopsy.
Specimen Handling Instructions:
For internal sites (HHS and STJ): contact microbiology for special specimen transport media. Send specimens ASAP on dry ice to microbiology HGH site.
For external sites: send biopsies in a sterile container with sterile saline, either on sterile gauze or sterile paper. Please do not send the cassette. Send specimens ASAP on dry ice to LRC.

Patient should discontinue all antibiotics and PPI at least 2 weeks prior to biopsy. Please provide information on previous treatment.
Storage/ Transport::
 For internal sites (HHS and STJ): collect in transport medium available from the Microbiology Laboratory. For external sites: specimen can be sent without transport medium. Send biopsies in a sterile container with sterile saline, either on sterile gauze or sterile paper.
Turnaround Time: 5-7 days for culture, 1-5 days for NAAT. Culture only available for Hamilton hospitals
Additional Information: Hamilton hospitals: Culture will be performed for Helicobacter pylori. The specimen will routinely be sent for H. pylori PCR.
External clients: PCR only.
Method of Analysis: Taqman real time PCR
Test was Last Updated: 7/2/2026
Testing Laboratory: Molecular Microbiology
Testing Site: SJHH