The evaluation of peptic ulcer disease begins with a history and physical exam.

Physical findings in someone with peptic ulcer disease may include:

• Blood in the stool:
• Black stool
• Rectal bleeding
• Red stools
• Upper abdominal tenderness
• Vomiting blood
• Vomiting material that looks like coffee grounds

Tests are necessary to make the diagnosis of peptic ulcer disease.

Tests that may be used to evaluate peptic ulcer disease include:

• Complete blood count
• Serum gastrin levels
• Tests for Helicobacter pylori infection:
• Helicobacter pylori breath test
• Helicobacter pylori blood test
• Helicobacter pylori biopsy test
• Helicobacter pylori stool test
• Stool guaiac test
• Chest x-ray
• Upper GI series
• Upper GI endoscopy