What is the primary indication of the urea breath test?

The urea breath test is primarily indicated for the diagnosis of Helicobacter pylori infection. This non-invasive test is based on the ability of H. pylori to metabolize urea to produce carbon dioxide and ammonia. During the test, a patient ingests a solution containing urea labeled with a specific carbon isotope. If H. pylori is present in the stomach, the urea is broken down, producing labeled carbon dioxide, which is then absorbed into the bloodstream and exhaled in the breath. The levels of labeled carbon dioxide in the breath provide a direct indication of the presence of the infection.

In contrast, the other options pertain to different diagnostic tests and evaluations. For instance, viral infections typically require serological assays or PCR testing for accurate detection. The assessment of kidney function is usually done through tests measuring serum creatinine levels, urine output, or glomerular filtration rate (GFR). Liver function assessment involves evaluating liver enzymes, bilirubin levels, and proteins, usually through blood tests. Therefore, while each of the other options serves important clinical purposes, they do not pertain to the specific use of the urea breath test, which is uniquely focused on identifying Helicobacter pylori infections.