Helicobacter pylori CagA genotype in patients with gastritis and peptic ulcer

ABSTRACT

H. pylori infection of the stomach is widespread and is considered to play a major role in the pathogenesis of gastric diseases such as peptic ulcer and adenocarcinoma. The virulence of this type of bacteria in gastroduodenal disease is related to virulence gene [cagA] present in some strains. The aim of this study was to investigate the presence of H. pylori cagA genotype and its association with clinical outcomes. H. pylori were isolated and rapid urease test was conducted from gastric biopsy specimens obtained from 93 patients [68 with gastritis and 25 with gastric ulcer]. The cagA genotype was detected by PCR. CagA genotype was present in 41% of the patients infected with H. pylori positive both by culture and rapid urease test. CagA genotype was correlated with the severity of gastritis [p=.017] and gastric ulcer [p=.047]. Dyspepsia patients should be tested for cagA status along with the tests for H. pylori status; and a positive cagA testing should be considered as an indication for eradication of treatment