EGD (Esophagogastroduodenoscopy) is a medical procedure used to examine the upper gastrointestinal tract, including the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum (the first part of the small intestine). It involves inserting a flexible tube (endoscope) through the mouth and down the throat to visualize these structures. EGD helps diagnose conditions such as ulcers, inflammation, tumors, and bleeding in the upper digestive system. It also allows for biopsies to be taken and therapeutic procedures like polyp removal or dilation of strictures to be performed. EGD is a valuable tool in gastroenterology for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes, providing detailed insights into upper gastrointestinal health.
RUT (Rapid Urease Test) is a diagnostic test used to detect the presence of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) bacteria in the stomach and duodenum. It involves taking a biopsy sample of the gastric mucosa during an endoscopy procedure. The biopsy sample is then tested with a special solution that detects urease activity, an enzyme produced by H. pylori. If the bacteria are present, urease converts urea in the solution into ammonia and carbon dioxide, causing a color change or pH shift that indicates a positive result. RUT is a quick and reliable method for diagnosing H. pylori infection, which is associated with various gastrointestinal conditions such as gastritis, peptic ulcers, and gastric cancer.
A diagnostic colonoscopy is a procedure where a flexible tube with a camera (colonoscope) is inserted through the anus to examine the inside of the large intestine (colon) and rectum. It is used to investigate symptoms like abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, or changes in bowel habits, and to diagnose conditions such as colorectal cancer, polyps, and inflammatory bowel disease. Biopsies may be taken or polyps removed during the procedure for further examination or treatment.
