U.S. OKs Beckman Test for Peptic Ulcers

Beckman Instruments Inc. said Friday that its blood diagnostic test for the bacteria that causes most cases of peptic ulcers was approved by federal regulators.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved Beckman’s FlexSure Hp, a whole blood test to detect evidence of H.pylori, the bacteria responsible for up to 90% of peptic ulcers, the company said.

The test uses a three-step, four-minute procedure that can be performed in a physician’s office.

Beckman also makes colon cancer screening tests, pregnancy tests and tests for infectious disease.