Transport and Storage of Fresh and Frozen Gastric Biopsy Specimens for Optimal Recovery of <i>Helicobacter pylori</i>

Abstract

The viability of Helicobacter pylori in vitro and in gastric biopsy specimens was determined. Recovery rates were 94, 87, and 77% from biopsy specimens in Portagerm pylori in cooled containers after 1, 2, and 3 days of transport, respectively (n = 307), and 97% if stored and shipped in glycerol broth at -70 degrees C (n = 232).