Peptest for diagnosing gastro‑oesophageal reflux

NICE has developed a medtech innovation briefing (MIB) on Peptest for diagnosing gastro-oesophageal reflux.

The Peptest is designed to help diagnose gastro-oesophageal reflux, from the stomach into the oesophagus, larynx or airways, by detecting pepsin within a saliva or sputum sample. Currently, there is no agreed normal range for pepsin levels in saliva. Three fully published small studies compared the Peptest with a reference standard. Two of these studies reported sensitivity of 33%-78% and specificity of 100%-43%. Each Peptest costs £10-20 depending on the processing location and whether a quantitative or qualitative result is requested.

Medtech innovation briefings provide a description of the medical technology, including its likely place in therapy, the costs of using the technology and a critical review of the strengths and weaknesses of the relevant published evidence.

Their purpose is to provide objective information on device and diagnostic technologies to aid local decision-making by clinicians, managers and procurement professionals. By making this information available, NICE helps to avoid the need for NHS organisations to produce similar information for local use.

Medtech innovation briefings are not NICE guidance. They differ in format, contain no judgement on the value of the technology and do not constitute a guidance recommendation.

MIBs are commissioned by NHS England and produced in support of the NHS 5 Year Forward View, specifically as one of a number of steps which will accelerate innovation in new treatments and diagnostics.