For decades, if a patient complained of persistent heartburn, regurgitation, or a chronic cough, the standard diagnostic pathway often led to one place: an endoscopy. This procedure, which involves passing a camera-tipped tube down the throat to examine the esophagus and stomach, has long been considered a cornerstone of reflux diagnosis. But it is invasive, expensive, and crucially it misses the majority of patients.

 

Endoscopy can only confirm reflux when it has already caused visible damage to the esophageal lining, such as erosions or Barrett's changes. In fact, studies show that endoscopy detects abnormalities in only about 30% of patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The remaining 70%—those with non‑erosive reflux disease (NERD)—receive a normal report despite suffering from significant symptoms ^[1]. For patients whose reflux reaches the throat, known as laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR), endoscopy is even less useful, as the camera rarely extends high enough to assess the voice box or pharynx.

 

So, is there a simpler, non‑invasive way to find out whether reflux is truly the cause of your symptoms? The answer, increasingly, is yes—and it starts with a small saliva sample.

 

The Science Behind Saliva Testing

Reflux is not just about acid. The stomach produces a powerful digestive enzyme called pepsin, which breaks down proteins. Pepsin is unique to the stomach—it should never appear in saliva, throat secretions, or the airways under normal circumstances. When it does, it serves as a direct and objective biomarker that gastric contents have travelled upwards ^[2].

 

Pepsin testing works by detecting this enzyme in a patient’s saliva. Unlike endoscopy, which looks for secondary damage, pepsin testing identifies the root cause: the presence of stomach contents where they do not belong. This distinction is critical, particularly for patients with LPR, who often experience throat symptoms without ever feeling heartburn.

 

Clinical Evidence: How Accurate Is It?

A large multicenter study conducted in China validated the accuracy of Peptest—a laboratory‑based pepsin test—across nine hospitals, enrolling 1032 participants including 709 patients with confirmed GERD and 323 healthy controls. The results showed an overall sensitivity of 85%  for detecting reflux ^[1]. For patients with suspected LPR, a separate study found that Peptest Pepsin Detection achieved 100% specificity, meaning that a positive result was highly reliable in confirming the presence of reflux ^[3].

Now, Pepfast builds on this same proven technology. As a next‑generation version, it retains the core science, while introducing key innovations that make it simpler and faster for clinical use: no centrifugation, lab-free, and results in just 15 minutes. Designed for use under professional guidance, Pepfast has been clinically validated against Peptest with 100% concordance, meaning the same robust evidence applies.

 

How Does Saliva Testing Compare to Endoscopy?

The question is not whether a saliva test can replace endoscopy entirely—it cannot. Endoscopy remains essential for ruling out Barrett’s esophagus, strictures, and malignancies. However, for the vast majority of patients with uncomplicated reflux symptoms, a non‑invasive saliva test offers several advantages:

 

Feature	Endoscopy	Pepsin Saliva Test
Invasiveness	Invasive, requires intubation	Non-invasive, saliva only
Risk	Perforation, bleeding, sedation risks	None
Duration	1.5h	15 mins
Best for	Ruling out serious pathology	Confirming reflux as the cause
Access	Specialist center	Clinic or under professional guidance

 

 

For patients who are anxious about invasive procedures, or for whom endoscopy is not immediately indicated, a Mhrefluxcare saliva test can provide rapid, objective evidence to guide the next steps.

 

Who Might Benefit from a Saliva Test?

A non‑invasive reflux test is particularly valuable for:

• Patients with throat‑dominant symptoms: Hoarseness, chronic cough, globus sensation, or throat clearing—especially when heartburn is absent.
• Individuals continue to experience symptoms: A positive pepsin test can confirm that reflux is still occurring, even without visible esophageal damage.
• Those seeking to monitor treatment response: Repeating the test after lifestyle changes or medication can provide objective feedback on whether reflux is under control.
• Patients who are not candidates for invasive procedures: Due to age, comorbidities, or personal preference.

 

A Note on Pepfast and Professional Guidance

Pepfast Pepsin Detection Kit is a rapid, non‑invasive saliva test that detects pepsin without the need for centrifugation or laboratory equipment. It is designed to be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional, who can provide the test, instruct on sample collection, and interpret the results within the context of the patient’s full clinical picture. Results are available in approximately 15 minutes, enabling timely clinical decisions.

 

 

 

❓Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can a saliva test replace endoscopy for diagnosing reflux?
No. Endoscopy remains important for detecting precancerous changes and structural abnormalities. However, a saliva test can provide a simple, non‑invasive way to confirm whether reflux is occurring—particularly in patients with non‑erosive disease or throat‑dominant symptoms ^[1,3].

 

2. Is the saliva test easy to perform?
Yes. Pepfast requires a small saliva sample, applied to a lateral flow device. No centrifuge or special equipment is needed. Results are read visually within 15 minutes.

 

3. Can the test be used if I don’t have heartburn?
Absolutely. Pepsin testing is particularly useful for patients with extra‑esophageal symptoms such as chronic cough, hoarseness, or throat clearing—often called “silent reflux” ^[2,3].

 

4. How soon can I get results?
Pepfast provides a result in approximately 15 minutes from sample collection.

 

 

References

1. Wang YF, Yang CQ, Chen YX, et al. (2019). Validation in China of a non‑invasive salivary pepsin biomarker containing two unique human pepsin monoclonal antibodies to diagnose gastroesophageal reflux disease. Journal of Digestive Diseases, 20(6):278-287.

2. Li J, et al. (2024). Salivary pepsin testing for laryngopharyngeal reflux: will it change our management? Current Opinion in Otolaryngology & Head and Neck Surgery, 32(6):398-402.

3. Kucova I, et al. (2021). The Diagnostic Value of the Peptest in Detecting Laryngopharyngeal Reflux. Journal of Clinical Medicine, 10(16):3621.

 

 

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is one of the most prevalent chronic gastrointestinal disorders which affects nearly 20% population worldwide, with diverse and non-specific symptoms that create significant diagnostic challenges. Traditional diagnostic methods, including symptom questionnaires, PPI trials, endoscopy, and impedance-pH monitoring, are often limited by invasiveness, low specificity, or complex operation. Pepfast is a novel saliva-based lateral flow in vitro diagnostic device for the qualitative detection of pepsin, providing a non-invasive, rapid, and objective auxiliary approach for the clinical assessment of GERD. This article briefly introduces the scientific basis of pepsin as a reflux biomarker, the operating procedure and clinical value of Pepfast.

 

Introduction to Pepfast

Pepfast is a pepsin detection device lauched by Maxhealth Innovative Meditech based on UK core technology, dedicated to the auxiliary diagnosis of gastroesophageal reflux disease. It uses highly specific human monoclonal antibodies against pepsin and can obtain clear results within 15 minutes. The device does not require centrifugation or other laboratory equipment, which simplifies the clinical operation process while maintaining high diagnostic accuracy and reliability.

 

Pepfast has obtained NMPA Class II certification, CE marking and FDA clearance, and is suitable for use in gastroenterology, otorhinolaryngology, respiratory medicine and primary care institutions. Clinical verification shows that it has good consistency and diagnostic performance, and can be operated by patients under clinical guidance to ensure standardized operation and reliable results.

 

Pepsin as a Specific Biomarker for Reflux-Related Diseases

Pepsin is a proteolytic enzyme uniquely produced by gastric chief cells. Its presence in the esophagus, pharynx, or oral cavity indicates the occurrence of gastroesophageal reflux, making it a specific objective biomarker for reflux events ^[1].

 

A clinical study by Hayat et al. (2015) confirmed that salivary pepsin testing can effectively distinguish patients with reflux-related symptoms from those with functional heartburn, providing high-level clinical evidence for the diagnostic value of pepsin ^[1].

 

Operational Procedure of Pepfast

Pepfast is simple to operate and does not rely on laboratory instruments. Before sampling, individuals should avoid eating, carbonated drinks or smoking which will trigger reflux for at least 60 minutes to ensure sample validity.

 

After collecting saliva and mix it with the migration buffer, the mixed solution is directly added to the test kit, and the result can be read after 15 minutes. A single control line indicates a negative result, showing the patient was not refluxing at the time sample was collected; while both test line and control line indicate a positive result which shows the patient is refluxing gastric content and can be treated for reflux; no control line indicates an invalid test and needs to be repeated.

Clinical Value of Pepfast

Pepfast provides a standardized, non-invasive, and rapid auxiliary diagnostic solution for GERD, helping clinicians objectively confirm reflux events and reduce diagnostic bias caused by subjective symptom reports. It is particularly valuable in the initial screening of suspected reflux patients, differentiation between reflux-related symptoms and functional heartburn, and reduction of unnecessary invasive examinations and prolonged empirical PPI therapy. With reliable performance and simplified operation, Pepfast optimizes the clinical management pathway for GERD and promotes precise and personalized intervention for patients with suspected reflux.

 

References

1. Hayat JO, Gabieta-Somnez S, Yazaki E, et al. Pepsin in saliva for the diagnosis of gastro-oesophageal reflux disease. Gut. 2015; 64: 373–380.

 

❓Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who can perform the Pepfast test?

Pepfast can be operated by doctors as well as patients under clinical guidance to ensure standardized operation and reliable results.

 

2. How long is the Pepfast result valid after the test is performed?

The result appears within 15 minutes and should be read during this window. If more than 30 minutes have passed, the result is considered invalid. Please read the result within the specified timeframe for accurate interpretation.

 

3. Is there any age restriction for using Pepfast?

There is no specific age restriction. However, for infants and young children who are unable to spit on their own, a healthcare professional may need to collect the sample using a straw or aspirator. For elderly individuals, saliva may be thicker—please avoid collecting samples that contain sputum to ensure accurate results.

 

 

That burning sensation in your chest after a spicy meal? That's classic heartburn, and it's hard to ignore. But what if your main complaint is a persistent tickle in your throat, a nagging cough, or the feeling of a lump that won't go away—without any burning sensation at all? You might be experiencing silent reflux, medically known as Laryngopharyngeal Reflux (LPR).

 

While both conditions stem from stomach contents traveling in the wrong direction, they affect different areas and present with vastly different symptoms. Understanding the difference is the first step toward finding the right answers. This article will clarify the distinct signs of heartburn and silent reflux, and explain why silent reflux is so often missed or misdiagnosed.

 

What is Heartburn?

Heartburn is not a disease itself, but a symptom—specifically, a burning sensation in the chest, just behind the breastbone. It typically occurs after eating, when lying down, or at night, and is caused by stomach acid flowing back into the esophagus.

 

This sensation is the most recognizable sign of acid reflux. It can last from a few minutes to several hours and is often described as a burning discomfort that moves up toward the throat. Occasional heartburn is common, but when it happens frequently, it may indicate an underlying condition such as Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD).

 

What is Silent Reflux (LPR)?

Silent reflux, or Laryngopharyngeal Reflux (LPR), is a condition where stomach contents—including acid and the digestive enzyme pepsin—travel all the way up past the esophagus, reaching the voice box (larynx) and the back of the throat (pharynx) ^[1].

 

It is called "silent" because it often occurs without the classic symptom of heartburn. Unlike the esophagus, the delicate tissues of the throat and voice box have no natural protection against acid or pepsin. Research has demonstrated that pepsin can damage the laryngeal and pharyngeal mucosa even at mild acidic or alkaline pH, showing some activity up to pH 8^[3]. This means irritation and damage can occur without any burning sensation in the chest.

 

Key Differences in Symptoms

The most significant difference lies in where the symptoms are felt. Heartburn is felt in the chest, while silent reflux symptoms are focused in the throat and voice. A study of 120 LPR patients found the most common symptoms to be throat irritation (58.3%), globus sensation (46%), dry cough (24%), and regurgitation (15%) ^[1].

 

Symptom	Heartburn	Silent Reflux
Primary Sensation	Burning in the chest	Throat irritation, tickling, or lump sensation
Voice	Usually unaffected	Hoarseness, voice changes, need to clear throat constantly
Cough	Less common	Chronic, dry cough
Swallowing	May have difficulty	Sensation of a lump in the throat
Mucus	Not a primary symptom	Excessive mucus or postnasal drip sensation
Taste	Sour or bitter taste in mouth	Bad or bitter taste possible

Many patients with LPR describe a feeling of a lump in their throat that won't go away, or they may find themselves constantly clearing their throat. One study found that globus sensation was the most common item in the Reflux Symptom Index, affecting 54% of pepsin-positive patients^[1]. Others report a sore throat that just never seems to heal.

 

The Diagnostic Challenge: Why "No Acid" Doesn't Mean "No Reflux"

This leads us to a common and frustrating question: "Why is my throat always sore but I feel no acid?" The answer is central to understanding LPR.

 

1. Silent Damage: The tissues of the larynx and pharynx are highly sensitive. Even a small amount of reflux—especially one containing the enzyme pepsin—can cause significant inflammation and symptoms. A systematic review published in the Journal of Voice found that salivary pepsin measurement for LPR diagnosis shows sensitivity ranging from 27.0% to 93.8% depending on the method and threshold used ^[2]. You don't need a large, acidic "event" to feel the effects.

 

2. Atypical Presentation: Many people with LPR do not have the classic heartburn symptoms. They are sometimes referred to as having "silent reflux" because the reflux itself is silent, even though its effects on the throat are quite noticeable. According to recent reviews, extraesophageal reflux presents with laryngopharyngeal symptoms including chronic cough and vocal changes ^[4].

 

About Maxhealth Innovative Meditech

If you'd like to learn more about the science behind reflux testing and treatment, Maxhealth Innovative Meditech is an innovative provider of complete solutions for reflux disease—from non‑invasive diagnostics to physical barrier therapies. Visit our page to see how we're advancing reflux care worldwide.

 

❓Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the most common LPR symptoms?

The most common symptoms include throat irritation (58.3%), globus sensation (46%), chronic cough (24%), regurgitation (15%), hoarseness, and excessive throat clearing [1]. Unlike heartburn, chest burning is often absent.

 

2. Why is silent reflux called "silent"?

It is called "silent" because it often occurs without heartburn—the most recognizable symptom of acid reflux. The reflux happens without the person feeling the classic burning sensation, even though it is causing damage to the throat and voice box [4].

 

3. Why is my throat always sore but I feel no acid?

This is a hallmark of LPR. The stomach enzyme pepsin, not just acid, can damage the delicate lining of your throat. Research has shown that pepsin can damage laryngeal mucosa even at mild acidic or alkaline pH [3]. You may not feel the actual reflux event, but the presence of pepsin can cause persistent inflammation, soreness, and irritation.

 

4. Can you have both heartburn and silent reflux?

Yes, it is possible to have both conditions. Some people with GERD also develop LPR, as stomach contents can travel all the way up to the throat. However, many people with LPR never experience heartburn [4].

 

5. When should I see a doctor about my symptoms?

If you have persistent throat discomfort, hoarseness, chronic cough, or a feeling of a lump in your throat that doesn't go away, it's worth consulting an ENT specialist. They can help determine whether silent reflux or another condition is causing your symptoms.

 

Literature References

[1] Divakaran S, Manimaran V, Shetty S, et al. (2020). Laryngopharyngeal Reflux: Symptoms, Signs, and Presence of Pepsin in Saliva - A Reliable Diagnostic Triad. International Archives of Otorhinolaryngology, 25(2): e273-e278.

[2] Hiernaux A, et al. (2025). Salivary Pepsin Measurement in Laryngopharyngeal Reflux Disease: A Systematic Review of Diagnostic Accuracy and Performance. Journal of Voice, S0892-1997(25)00332-7.

[3] Li J, et al. (2024). Salivary pepsin testing for laryngopharyngeal reflux: will it change our management? Current Opinion in Otolaryngology & Head and Neck Surgery, 32(6):398-402.

[4] Blaine-Sauer S, et al. (2025). Extraesophageal reflux: Clinical manifestations and tools for diagnosis and treatment. Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences, 1547(1):233-244.

 

Medical Review by: Prof. Peter Dettmar, world-renowned expert in reflux disease and the original developer of pepsin detection technology.

For years, diagnosing laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR)—often called silent reflux—has been a challenge. Symptoms such as chronic cough, hoarseness, throat clearing, and a sensation of a lump in the throat can overlap with allergies, sinusitis, or voice disorders. Traditional diagnostic methods, including flexible laryngoscopy and 24‑hour multichannel intraluminal impedance-pH monitoring, are invasive, time‑consuming, and not always accessible in routine clinical settings.

 

That is why a growing number of medical professionals are turning to Peptest, a simple, non‑invasive saliva test that detects pepsin—a direct biomarker of gastric reflux. Peptest is now used in hospitals and clinics across multiple specialties, providing objective evidence to support diagnosis and treatment decisions.

 

What the Research Shows

Multiple clinical studies have validated Peptest as a reliable screening tool for reflux disease. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Medicine evaluated Peptest in patients with suspected LPR and found that it demonstrated 100% specificity in detecting the condition, outperforming non‑invasive methods such as the Reflux Symptom Index (RSI) and Reflux Finding Score (RFS). The researchers concluded that a positive Peptest result is “highly supportive of a pathological LPR diagnosis” and noted its value as a screening test for physicians who cannot visualize the larynx, particularly in the context of COVID‑safe, non‑invasive procedures ^[1].

 

In China, a large multicenter study published in the Journal of Digestive Diseases further validated Peptest’s clinical utility. The study enrolled 1032 participants across nine hospitals in Shanghai and Beijing, including 488 patients with non‑erosive reflux disease (NERD), 221 with erosive esophagitis (EE), and 323 healthy controls. The results showed an overall pepsin‑positive sensitivity of 85% ^[2]. The study concluded that Peptest provides a rapid, non‑invasive alternative to traditional diagnostic methods and improves the accuracy of reflux diagnosis, particularly in a population where reflux disease has been underdiagnosed due to a lack of effective objective tests ^[2].

 

Together, these studies demonstrate that Peptest is a valuable tool across different populations and clinical settings, offering a simple, painless way to confirm or rule out reflux.

 

Which Specialties Can Benefit from Peptest?

Peptest is designed to support clinicians across a range of disciplines where reflux plays a hidden but significant role.

1. Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) Specialists

ENT clinicians regularly see patients with hoarseness, globus sensation, throat clearing, and chronic cough—all potential signs of LPR. Peptest offers a quick, objective way to confirm reflux as the underlying cause, helping to differentiate it from other laryngeal conditions.

2. Gastroenterologists

For gastroenterologists managing patients with gastro‑esophageal reflux disease (GERD), Peptest provides a non‑invasive tool to assess whether reflux is reaching the upper airway. It can also be used to monitor treatment response in patients with persistent symptoms despite acid suppression.

3. General Practitioners (GPs) and Primary Care

GPs are often the first point of contact for patients with reflux symptoms. With Peptest, they can obtain objective evidence early, guiding appropriate referrals and avoiding unnecessary or prolonged use of acid‑suppressing medication before a confirmed diagnosis.

4. Pulmonologists and Chest Physicians

Chronic cough is a common extra‑esophageal manifestation of reflux. Peptest helps pulmonologists identify reflux as a contributor to persistent cough, potentially reducing unnecessary investigations for other causes.

5. Allergists

Symptoms such as throat irritation and post‑nasal drip can mimic allergies. Peptest enables allergists to rule out reflux when the diagnosis is uncertain, or to identify it as a coexisting condition requiring separate management.

 

Peptest in China: A Trusted Solution Since 2019

Peptest was first developed in the UK and has been used clinically for over 15 years. In 2019, it received NMPA registration, marking a significant step in making non‑invasive reflux testing accessible to Chinese patients and clinicians.

 

Maxhealth Innovative Meditech serves as the exclusive distributor of Peptest in China, working closely with hospitals and healthcare providers to integrate this innovative diagnostic tool into routine practice. To learn more about the launch and our ongoing commitment to reflux care, read our company news here.

 

Why Early Diagnosis Matters

An early, objective diagnosis of reflux opens the door to targeted management—whether that involves lifestyle modification, dietary changes, physical barrier therapies such as alginates, or, where appropriate, acid suppression. Peptest can also be used after treatment to assess whether reflux has been successfully controlled, providing a valuable endpoint that goes beyond symptom reporting ^[1].

 

For patients, the benefits are clear: a painless test that delivers clear answers. For clinicians, Peptest offers a practical, evidence‑based tool that fits seamlessly into modern practice.

 

❓Frequently Asked Questions

1. How accurate is Peptest for detecting LPR?
In a published study, Peptest demonstrated 100% specificity in a group of patients with suspected LPR ^[1]. A large Chinese multicenter study reported an overall sensitivity of 85% for detecting GERD ^[2].

2. Is Peptest available in China?
Yes. Peptest received NMPA registration in 2019 and is distributed exclusively by Maxhealth. It is used in hospitals and clinics across the country.

3. Can Peptest be used to monitor treatment?
Yes. Peptest can be repeated during or after treatment to provide objective evidence of whether reflux is adequately controlled ^[1].

4. How does Peptest compare to endoscopy or pH monitoring?
Peptest is non‑invasive, requires no special equipment or lengthy procedures, and detects the presence of pepsin—a direct biomarker of reflux. It complements traditional methods by offering a simple, patient‑friendly screening option.

 

References

1. Kucova I, et al. (2021). The Diagnostic Value of the Peptest in Detecting Laryngopharyngeal Reflux. Journal of Clinical Medicine, 10(16):3621.

2. Wang YF, Yang CQ, Chen YX, et al. (2019). Validation in China of a non‑invasive salivary pepsin biomarker containing two unique human pepsin monoclonal antibodies to diagnose gastroesophageal reflux disease. Journal of Digestive Diseases, 20(6):278-287.

 

Medical Review by: Prof. Peter Dettmar, world‑renowned expert in reflux disease and the original developer of pepsin detection technology.

If you’ve been living with a persistent cough, hoarseness, throat clearing, or heartburn, you’ve probably wondered: Is there a test that can tell me if reflux is the cause—without an endoscopy or a tube down my nose? The good news is yes. A non‑invasive reflux test that detects the stomach enzyme pepsin in your saliva is now available. The even better news is that you don’t need to be in a hospital to get one. In many countries, you can obtain a Pepfast Pepsin Detection Kit through your doctor, a clinic, or even a pharmacy—thanks to the presence of trained pharmacists who can provide professional guidance.

 

This article explains exactly where and how you can access a reliable, medical‑grade reflux test, why professional oversight is a benefit (not a barrier), and how the process compares to traditional invasive diagnostics.

 

What Is a Pepsin Reflux Test and Why Is It Different?

Pepsin is a digestive enzyme produced only in your stomach. Under normal circumstances, it should never appear in your saliva. When it does, it is a direct biomarker that gastric contents have refluxed into your throat or airways. Unlike endoscopy, which looks for secondary damage, a pepsin test identifies the root cause: the presence of stomach contents where they don’t belong ^[1].

 

The Pepfast Pepsin Detection Kit uses lateral flow technology—similar to a rapid pregnancy test—to detect pepsin in a small saliva sample. It requires no tubes, no scopes, no sedation, and no centrifugation. Results appear in just 15 minutes.

 

Where Can You Get a Pepfast Pepsin Detection Kit? (Three Options)

Because Pepfast Pepsin Detection Kit is a regulated medical device, it is not sold over the counter like a candy bar. However, it is widely accessible through three professional channels.

 

1. Your Doctor (GP, ENT, or Gastroenterologist)

This is the most common route. You describe your symptoms—heartburn, regurgitation, chronic cough, hoarseness, lump sensation in the throat. If your doctor suspects reflux (especially LPR, the “silent” type), they can prescribe or provide you with a Pepfast kit. You take it home, collect a saliva sample in minutes, read the result in 15 minutes, and then discuss the outcome with your doctor to plan next steps.

 

2. A Hospital or Outpatient Clinic

Many gastroenterology or ENT clinics now stock pepsin tests as a first‑line screening tool. During your visit, a nurse or clinician may hand you the kit, explain the simple instructions, and have you collect the sample on‑site or at home. Results are then integrated into your clinical record.

 

3. A Pharmacy (with a Pharmacist)

In many countries, such as the UK, Germany, Australia, and parts of the US—pharmacists are trained healthcare professionals who can assess your symptoms, provide professional advice, and supply certain medical devices without a doctor’s prescription. This includes the Pepfast Pepsin Detection Kit. You can walk into a participating pharmacy, speak with the pharmacist about your reflux symptoms, and if appropriate, they will give you the kit, explain how to use it, and help you interpret the result. The pharmacist may also recommend follow‑up with a doctor if the result is positive or if symptoms persist.

 

Note: In some regions, you may need a prescription. Always check local regulations. The key point is that a trained professional—doctor or pharmacist—is involved to ensure correct use and interpretation.

 

Why Professional Guidance Is a Benefit, not a Hassle

Some people think, “Why can’t I just buy this online and do it completely alone?” The answer lies in clinical accuracy. A 2019 multicenter study in China involving over 1000 participants found that the pepsin test had a sensitivity of 85% for GERD ^[1]. For LPR, another study reported 100% specificity ^[2]. But no test is perfect. A false positive could lead to unnecessary medication; a false negative might delay treatment for another condition.

 

A professional—whether a doctor or a pharmacist—helps you:

• Decide if the test is appropriate for your symptoms.
• Ensure you collect the sample correctly (though the instructions are simple).
• Interpret the result in the context of your medical history.
• Recommend the next steps: lifestyle changes, physical barrier therapy (like alginates), acid suppression, or further testing.

 

Compare that to traditional reflux diagnostics:

• Endoscopy: fasting, sedation, a camera down your throat, recovery time.
• 24‑hour pH monitoring: a thin tube through your nose, worn for a full day, disrupting sleep and work.

 

With Pepfast pepsin detection kit, you spend a few minutes talking to a professional, then collect saliva at home. No sedation. No tubes. No missed work. The “professional step” is tiny compared to the invasiveness of older methods.

 

Why This Matters for Patients and for Distributors

For patients: You now have a simple, non‑invasive way to get objective evidence about whether reflux is causing your symptoms. The process is faster and far more comfortable than traditional testing.

 

For distributors and pharmacies: The growing demand for convenient reflux testing represents a significant market opportunity. Products like Pepfast, which are regulatory‑cleared (CE, FDA, NMPA) and designed for professional guidance, can be stocked by pharmacies and clinics. Pharmacists can offer the test as a value‑added service, helping patients get answers without a hospital visit. This aligns with the global shift toward community‑based, accessible diagnostics.

 

Introducing Pepfast: The Clinician‑Guided, Patient‑Friendly Test

Pepfast is a non‑invasive saliva test launched by Maxhealth Innovative Meditech that detects pepsin without centrifugation. It delivers results in 15 minutes and is intended for use under professional guidance—from a doctor, clinic, or pharmacist. With CE, FDA, and NMPA clearances, Pepfast is ready for distribution worldwide. It offers a simple, objective way to confirm reflux, enabling faster, more confident treatment decisions.

• For patients: Ask your doctor or local pharmacist about Pepfast.
• For pharmacies and distributors: Contact Mhrefluxcare for product specifications, and partnership opportunities.

 

❓Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I buy a reflux test at a pharmacy without a prescription?

In many countries (e.g., UK, Germany, Australia), trained pharmacists can supply Pepfast pepsin detection kit after a brief consultation to ensure it’s appropriate for your symptoms. In other regions, a prescription may be required. Check with your local pharmacy.

 

2. What do the results mean?

Two lines = positive (pepsin detected, suggesting reflux). One C line = negative (no pepsin detected at this time). No line=invalid (need to repeat the test). Your healthcare professional will interpret the result alongside your symptoms.

 

3. How accurate is Pepfast pepsin detection kit?

Clinical studies report sensitivity of 85% for GERD and up to 100% specificity for LPR [1,2]. The test is a reliable screening tool when used under professional guidance.

 

4. Can I use Pepfast if I have throat symptoms but no heartburn?

Absolutely. Pepfast is especially useful for LPR (“silent reflux”), which often presents as hoarseness, chronic cough, throat clearing, or a lump sensation without heartburn.

 

 

Reference

[1] Wang YF, Yang CQ, Chen YX, et al. (2019). Validation in China of a non‑invasive salivary pepsin biomarker containing two unique human pepsin monoclonal antibodies to diagnose gastroesophageal reflux disease. Journal of Digestive Diseases, 20(6):278-287.

[2] Kucova I, et al. (2021). The Diagnostic Value of the Peptest in Detecting Laryngopharyngeal Reflux. Journal of Clinical Medicine, 10(16):3621.

 

Medical Review by: Prof. Peter Dettmar, world‑renowned expert in reflux disease and the original developer of pepsin detection technology.

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在本次展会上，泰利杰重点展示了其适用于各种应用场景的可水洗纸，同时还展出了床单卷、围兜、各类无纺布产品以及定制解决方案，充分展现了公司在卫生材料领域深厚的技术积累和持续创新能力。展会期间，泰利杰团队通过样品演示、技术讲解和一对一洽谈等方式，与众多客户进行了精准沟通。基于技术创新和服务升级，泰利杰为客户提供了更具针对性的产品匹配方案和优质的售前售后服务。

每一届SINCE都是行业关注和思想交流的重要平台；泰利杰已连续多年参加该展会，不仅展示了公司在卫浴材料领域的强大积累，而且通过与新老客户、供应商和行业专家的真诚交流，把握了行业最新趋势和合作机遇，促进了技术合作和业务拓展。

通过此次展会，泰利杰进一步巩固了国内外合作基础，并通过与行业伙伴的深入交流，更好地把握了国际市场的新趋势。未来，公司将继续加大研发投入，推进绿色生产和可持续材料应用，推动产品向高端化、差异化、多元化方向发展；同时，我们将强化数字化生产和服务能力，优化全球供应链和客户支持体系，以领先的技术和高端产品服务全球客户，不断提升品牌在全球卫浴材料市场的影响力和市场份额，为行业的健康可持续发展做出贡献。

1-Near-Infrared Vein Finders

This is the most intuitive tool for dealing with superficial veins (within 10mm subcutaneous), such as Vein Finder

Working principle: Hemoglobin in the blood absorbs near-infrared light, while the surrounding tissues (including subcutaneous fat and scar tissue) reflect the light. After the instrument captures this information, it will project the shape of the veins back to the skin surface in real time with dark lines or bright colors.



How to avoid scars: Scar tissue itself lacks normal capillaries and venous networks, so under an imager, the scar area usually appears as a “blank” or blocked zone.

The operator can hold the imaging instrument to scan around the scar and observe the course of the veins (vascular tree).

Search for available veins: Follow the dark vascular lines displayed by the imaging instrument and trace upstream (proximal end) or downstream (distal end) to find a section of vein that avoids the scar edge, has a clear and straight line, and serves as the puncture point.



2-Ultrasonic guidance technology

When the scar area is large or the superficial veins have been exhausted and it is necessary to find deeper veins, ultrasound is the “gold standard”.

Working principle: Utilize high-frequency sound waves to penetrate tissues. Liquids (such as blood in veins) appear black (anechoic) under ultrasound, while dense tissues (such as scars and muscle fascia) appear bright white (hyperechoic).



How to avoid scars

Scar tissue is composed of dense fibrous connective tissue. On an ultrasound screen, it appears as a particularly bright area. Due to its high density, it may produce acoustic shadows at the bottom of the image, blocking the view.

The operator places the ultrasound probe (usually a high-frequency linear array probe) on the normal skin around the scar for cross-sectional scanning.

Search for available veins: Look for black, circular lumens on the ultrasound screen. To confirm that it is a healthy vein rather than an artery or a dead lumen compressed by a scar, the operator will conduct a compression test (gently press down with a probe; a healthy vein is easily flattened and closed, and returns to its original round shape when released). Once the vein is confirmed to be unobstructed, a needle can be inserted through healthy skin without scars under the real-time dynamic guidance of ultrasound.

Key advice: Absolutely avoid inserting or penetrating the needle directly into or through the scar tissue. The pain nerve endings in the scar area may be abnormally sensitive, and due to the lack of normal tissue elasticity, leakage, catheter rupture or phlebitis is very likely to occur after puncture. The greatest value of imaging technology lies in providing you with a "subcutaneous map", allowing you to bypass obstacles and plan the optimal puncture path.

Interested in becoming a distributor? Contact us for wholesale pricing.

Also welcome to contact us, we are ZD Medical Inc.
Tel : +86-187 9586 9515
Email : sales@zd-med.com
Whatsapp/Mobile : +86-187 9586 9515

1-Overcome the limitations of light and hardware in the home environment
Uncontrollable lighting

: Hospital blood collection rooms usually have bright, shadowless professional lighting, while the light in patients’ homes is often dim, warm-toned, and even small, making it difficult for nurses to clearly see the blood vessels with their naked eyes.



The assistance of the imaging device: The portable venous imaging device comes with its own light source and can emit near-infrared light of a specific wavelength, completely unaffected by the ambient light in the home. It can provide nurses with a high-contrast “navigation map” of blood vessels in a dim bedroom or beside a bed.



2.-Overcome the “difficult blood vessels” and increase the rate of incisive response

Patients who need home blood collection are often vulnerable groups who have difficulty going to the hospital, and their vascular conditions are usually poor.

Elderly patients: The blood vessel walls are fragile, have poor elasticity, and are prone to sliding or collapsing.

Children/infants: They have small blood vessels, thick fat layers, and are prone to crying and being uncooperative.

Patients with chronic diseases or severe conditions: such as those who have been bedridden for a long time, have edema, are obese, or frequently undergo chemotherapy (for arteriosclerosis).



The assistance of imaging devices: Nurses no longer need to blindly “explore” or repeatedly touch based solely on experience. The imaging device can directly display the direction, thickness, branches and even the position of the valves of veins, helping nurses precisely select the straightest and healthiest blood vessels for puncture, significantly increasing the success rate of “puncturing with a single needle”.



3-Alleviate the anxiety of patients and their families and build trust between doctors and patients

Psychological stress: When invasive procedures are performed in a non-medical environment (at home), patients and their accompanying family members often become even more nervous. Once the first injection fails, the family members’ emotions can easily get agitated, leading to complaints.

The assistance of imaging devices: When patients and their families witness high-tech equipment clearly projecting originally invisible blood vessels onto the skin, it will greatly enhance their trust in the professionalism of nurses. The "visualized" process makes family members feel at ease and effectively reduces the cost of doctor-patient communication and the potential risk of friction.

4-Enhance the confidence and efficiency of nurses working alone
Isolated and helpless

: When encountering puncture difficulties in the hospital, nurses can call for assistance from senior colleagues at any time. However, home blood collection is usually done by a single person, and the psychological pressure is huge when encountering difficult blood vessels.

The assistance of the imaging instrument: The device is compact in size (usually about the size of a flashlight), can be handheld or used with a portable stand, which greatly enhances the operational confidence of the nurses on duty. Quickly locating blood vessels not only reduces the psychological burden on nurses but also shortens the service time for a single blood collection, thereby enhancing the overall outpatient efficiency of nurses within a day.

Interested in becoming a distributor? Contact us for wholesale pricing.

Also welcome to contact us, we are ZD Medical Inc.
Tel : +86-187 9586 9515
Email : sales@zd-med.com
Whatsapp/Mobile : +86-187 9586 9515

1. Bridging the "technical gap" of grassroots nurses

In remote areas of developing countries, there is often a severe shortage of experienced intravenous therapy nurses, and the turnover rate of primary medical staff is high. Many newly graduated or insufficiently trained novices have an extremely high failure rate in puncture when dealing with difficult blood vessels. The imaging device can directly "draw" the vascular routes on the skin, which is a typical "foolproof auxiliary tool", greatly lowering the technical threshold of puncture. This is an excellent selling point that can directly reduce medical disputes for local private clinic owners or distributors in lower-tier markets.

2. Addressing the challenges of tropical diseases and deep skin tone

Dark skin puncture: In some parts of Africa or South Asia, dark skin can increase the difficulty of visually locating superficial veins. Near-infrared technology, based on the principle that blood absorbs light, has extremely low sensitivity to skin color and can clearly display the venous network of patients with dark skin tones.

Emergency treatment for tropical infectious diseases: Dengue fever, cholera, malaria and other diseases frequently occur in these areas. Patients often suffer from severe dehydration, shock or fever, which can cause blood vessels to shrivel and collapse. The imaging device can help village doctors quickly locate venous channels for fluid replacement in such highly challenging emergency situations.

3. Perfectly fit the "mobile medical tour" and power shortage environment

Primary healthcare in emerging markets relies heavily on mobile medical vehicles, rural medical teams or temporary medical camps set up by international non-governmental organizations . The portable venous imaging device is compact and comes with a large-capacity rechargeable battery, completely independent of a stable power grid. In remote villages with unstable power supply, this ready-to-use device can be regarded as a practical wonder.

4. Reduce the waste of consumables and the risk of needle prick infection

The budgets of primary clinics in developing countries are usually very tight. Repeated blind punctures not only waste precious consumables such as indwelling needles and blood collection needles, but more fatal is that in areas with a high incidence of blood-borne infectious diseases such as AIDS and hepatitis B, blind punctures greatly increase the probability of medical staff suffering from needle-puncture injuries. Improving the rate of "hitting the nail on the head" is directly helping local hospitals save money and lives.

Interested in becoming a distributor? Contact us for wholesale pricing.

Also welcome to contact us, we are ZD Medical Inc.
Tel : +86-187 9586 9515
Email : sales@zd-med.com
Whatsapp/Mobile : +86-187 9586 9515