How much does a Helicobacter pylori test cost?
Aug 28, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Li Jingxiang
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, the cost of Helicobacter pylori testing typically ranges from 100 to 800 yuan. However, the exact cost depends on the specific test selected. Commonly used testing methods include urea breath test (carbon-13), urea breath test (carbon-14), gastroscopy (including Helicobacter pylori detection), serological testing, and stool antigen testing. This examination should be performed at a qualified hospital.
Under normal circumstances, the cost of Helicobacter pylori testing typically ranges from ¥100 to ¥800, but the exact price depends on the specific test method selected. Commonly used testing methods include urea breath test (carbon-13), urea breath test (carbon-14), gastroscopy (including H. pylori detection), serological testing, and stool antigen testing. This test should be performed at a qualified hospital. Detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Urea Breath Test (Carbon-13)
This test involves oral administration of carbon-13-labeled urea reagent, followed by measuring the amount of labeled carbon dioxide in exhaled breath to determine infection status. It is non-invasive and highly accurate. Influenced by regional factors and hospital level, the reference price at tertiary hospitals in first-tier cities may range from ¥200 to ¥300; at secondary hospitals in third- and fourth-tier cities, the reference price may range from ¥150 to ¥200; if the equipment is imported, the price may increase by ¥30 to ¥50.
2. Urea Breath Test (Carbon-14)
Similar to carbon-13 in principle, this test uses carbon-14-labeled reagents and is slightly less expensive than carbon-13. The reference price at grassroots hospitals or community health service centers may range from ¥100 to ¥150; at secondary hospitals, it may range from ¥120 to ¥180; in high-cost areas such as first-tier cities, the price at tertiary hospitals may reach ¥180 to ¥250.
3. Gastroscopy
This test involves observing the gastric mucosa via endoscope and taking tissue samples for testing. It is an invasive procedure and relatively more expensive. At tertiary hospitals using high-definition gastroscopes, the reference price may range from ¥500 to ¥800; at secondary hospitals using standard gastroscopes, the price may range from ¥300 to ¥500; at township hospitals in third- and fourth-tier cities, the price may be lower, ranging from ¥300 to ¥400. If sedation is required, the overall price increases by ¥200 to ¥300.
4. Serological Testing
This test detects H. pylori antibodies in the blood to determine infection status. It is simple to perform and relatively low in cost. The reference price at grassroots hospitals may range from ¥80 to ¥120; at secondary hospitals, it may range from ¥100 to ¥150; at tertiary hospitals in first-tier cities, due to differences in testing reagents, the price may reach ¥120 to ¥180.
5. Stool Antigen Testing
This test detects H. pylori antigens in stool samples and is non-invasive, making it suitable for children or individuals who cannot tolerate other tests. The reference price at secondary hospitals may range from ¥100 to ¥150; at tertiary hospitals, it may range from ¥120 to ¥200; at grassroots hospitals in third- and fourth-tier cities, the price may be lower, ranging from ¥80 to ¥120.
In daily life, if symptoms such as stomach pain, bloating, or acid reflux occur, it is recommended to promptly visit a qualified hospital and choose an appropriate testing method. Preparations should be made according to medical advice before testing—for example, fasting and discontinuation of acid-suppressive medications are required before urea breath tests to ensure accurate results.
