Histological Changes of Gastric Mucosa after Helicobacter pylori Eradication

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND/AIMS: The aim of this study was to evaluate whether Helicobacter pylori eradication could improve histologic findings of gastric mucosa. MATERIALS AND METHODS: One hundred thirty two H. pylori infected patients were evaluated for histologic findings. Biopsy specimens from antrum and corpus were taken before and 7 weeks after H. pylori eradication therapy. Before and after eradication, H. pylori status was determined by biopsy, rapid urease test and urea breath test. Histologic findings were classified as mild, moderate, or severe according to the updated Sydney classification. RESULTS: The scoring of H. pylori density, activity and gastric atrophy was found significantly decreased in H. pylori eradicated groups after 7 weeks, while no significant change was found in H. pylori non-eradicated groups. Intestinal metaplasia wasn't improved in neither H. pylori eradicated group or H. pylori non-eradicated group. CONCLUSIONS: It can be suggested that improvement of H. pylori density, activity and gastric atrophy may occur after eradication of H. pylori. To see the positive effects of eradication therapy, a longer follow-up duration might be needed.