Pause to UKHSA Helicobacter pylori isolation and Antimicrobial Sensitivity Testing Service

As a result of increasing volumes of specimens received exceeding capacity, the UKHSA Gastrointestinal Bacteria Reference Unit (GBRU) are pausing the routine delivery of Helicobacter pylori isolation and identification from clinical specimens (gastric biopsy) and antimicrobial sensitivity testing by Etest.

Samples already received will be processed but there will be an extended turn-around time. The situation will be actively reviewed throughout this period and an updated briefing note issued as appropriate. Existing customers will also receive email updates as appropriate.

UKHSA sites and services should continue to refer other samples to the Gastrointestinal Bacteria Reference Unit (GBRU) for confirmation and further characterisation as normal.

If biopsy samples have already been collected, UKHSA will accept the submission of gastric biopsy specimens for Helicobacter pylori although there will be an extended turn around time.

No new samples should be collected for submission to this service at present.

Interim guidance can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/interim-guidance-for-the-management-of-helicobacter-pylori-cases

We will inform you if there will be any further developments or updates to the process.

17th January 2025.