Swallow a string to test for stomach bug?

NCT ID NCT06871579

Ongoing Diagnosis Sponsor: National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Aug 13, 2026 · Updated 3 times

Summary

This study tests a new device called the esophageal string test (EST) to diagnose H. pylori, a stomach bacteria that can cause ulcers and cancer. Participants swallow a capsule with a string inside that collects stomach fluids. Researchers compare the results to standard tests. The study involves 25 adults with persistent H. pylori infection and aims to see if the EST can detect the bacteria and antibiotic resistance genes.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: Esophageal string test (EST) device
What this could lead to: If successful, this could provide a simpler, less invasive way to diagnose H. pylori infection and detect antibiotic resistance.
What could go wrong: This is a very small pilot study (25 people) testing feasibility, not effectiveness. The string test may be less accurate than standard methods or uncomfortable for patients.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Helicobacter pylori infectious disease

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

HELICOBACTER PYLORI

Contacts and locations

Locations

National Institutes of Health Clinical Center

Bethesda, Maryland, 20892, United States

More trials for these conditions

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