ABSTRACT
Background: The association of Helicobacter pylori with peptic ulcer disease, atrophic gastritis, gastric adenocarcinoma, MALT (mucosa associated lymphoid tissue) lymphoma is well recognized. Aim: This study was conducted to see whether there was any relation between H pylori eradication and reflux esophagitis in Iran. Methods: Eligible dyspeptic patients referred to Gastroenterology clinic in Baqiyatollah hospital were endoscopied and evaluated for endoscopic and pathologic esophagitis and the H. pylori infection status was determined by rapid urease test. H. pylori infection was treated by an anti H. pylori drug regimen and successfully eradicated patients according to negative C14 urea breath test were followed and re-endoscopy was performed 6-9 months after the end of treatment. Results: From175 eligible patients,54% were H. pylori positive, 68 of them (72%) had successful H.P. eradication and 64 patients completed the follow-up. The rate of histopathologic inflammatory esophagitis was higher in second endoscopy, compared with that of first endoscopy, i.e., before H. pylori eradication (75% vs 40.6%) (p<0.05). Progression of pathological esophagitis was seen in 56.3% of patients between the two endoscopic evaluations in spite of no change in clinical and endoscopic findings. There were no significant differences in dietary and smoking habits and body weights on re-endoscopy session compared with that of the first endoscopy visit (p>0.05). Conclusion: This study suggests that H.pylori eradication in dyspeptic patients may lead to increased frequency of histopathological esophagitis Hence, In patients presenting with symptoms of dyspepsia , a cautious approach should be exercised if H.pylori eradication is being contemplated.
ABSTRACT
Background: The prevalence of Helicobacter pylori infection varies in different societies and geographical locations. This is attributed to socioeconomic status, life style, family density and other factors. There is also a possibility of an association between eating habits and the prevalence of H. pylori infection. Aim: In this study, we examine the association between H. pylori infection and particular eating habits such as sharing plates, glasses and spoons. Methods: This cross-sectional study was performed via a questionnaire-based evaluation of all patients with dyspepsia who underwent endoscopic assessment. Data including demographic information, endoscopic findings, H. pylori status and sharing of dishes within families were recorded. Individuals with a history of 3-day antibiotic treatment in the past month, or use of proton pump inhibitors in the past two weeks, or regular use of H2-blockers during the past week were excluded. The H.pylori status was determined using the rapid urease test. Results: Of the 225 participants who had filled in the questionnaire, 204 were eligible; 92 were male (45.1%) and 112 female (54.9%) with 22% younger than 30 years of age, 49% between 30 and 50 years and 29% older than 50. In families where common dishes were used, the prevalence of H. pylori infection was significantly higher. (77% vs. 53%, p=0.001) Factors such as age, sex, and education proved to be irrelevant. Conclusion: The results suggest a strong link between H. pylori infection and eating habits, thereby raising the possibility that modification of these habits might limit H. pylori infection.