[ correlation between helicobacter pylori infection and serum ferritin concentration and iron deficiency anemia]

ABSTRACT

Iron deficiency is the most common cause of anemia worldwide, however a significant number of these patients remain undiagnosed. Based on the high frequency of iron deficiency anemia and H. pylori infection in Iran, This study was done to evaluate their correlation. This descriptive study was done in Imam Reza Hospital in the year 2005. 184 patients mostly with GI system complaints were referred for determination of serum anti H.pylori IgG and IgA levels. In addition, we performed complete cell blood count and serum ferritin concentration tests for all the patients. Individual, cell blood count and serum ferritin concentration data were gathered in a questionnaire. Statistical analysis was performed by SPSS software and descriptive statistics. Our results showed that in 77.8% of our patients at least one of serum anti H. pylori IgG or IgA antibodies were positive. The rate of positive serology was increased in higher age groups. Patients' gender did not influence the results. Serum ferritin level did not show any correlation with H. pylori infection and the frequency of iron deficiency anemia was not higher in infected individuals. Although many studies have shown positive correlation between H. pylori infection and iron deficiency anemia, few studies have not confirmed these findings. Our study does not support this correlation, as well. Due to high frequency of both iron deficiency anemia and H. pylori infection in Iran, further large scale studies are recommended