Investigation of H pylori colonization in adenotonsillectomy specimens by means of rapid urease [CLO] test

ABSTRACT

This prospective clinical study was performed to investigate the colonization of H pylori in adenoid and tonsil tissues by using the Campylobacter-like organism [CLO] test. Included in the study were 56 patients aged 3 to 43 yrs who had undergone adenoidectomy, tonsillectomy or adenotonsillectomy procedures under general anesthesia. Two-mm diameter tissue pieces of adenoid and tonsil specimens were placed in urease solution. Color changes were noted after 30 min and 24 hrs. 27 [48.2%] of the patients were shown to be H pylori positive and 29 [51.8%] were negative, regardless of the type of specimen. There was a high rate of H pylori colonization in tonsil and adenoid tissues. The cause of recurrent H pylori infections of the gastric mucosa may be the result of colonization in the adenotonsillar tissues. Prevention of H pylori colonization may reduce the recurrences of the disease