The following tests are used to diagnose peptic ulcer:
- Upper GI endoscopy or oesophagogastroduodenoscopy confirms an ulcer and permits cytological studies and biopsy to rule out H. pylori or cancer.Endoscopy is the major diagnostic test for peptic ulcers.
- Barium swallow and upper GI or small-bowel series may pinpoint the ulcer in a patient whose symptoms aren't severe.
- Upper GI tract X-ray reveals mucosal abnormalities.
- Faecal analysis may detect occult blood.
- WBC count is elevated;other blood tests may also disclose clinical signs of infection.
- Gastric secretory studies show excess hyderochloric acid (hyprechlorhydria).
- carbon-13 urea breath test reflects activity of H. pylori.