Journal Mobile

Author(s): 
W Luman
Journal Issue: 
Volume 35: Issue 1: 2005

Format

Abstract

 

Helicobacter  pylori is  strongly  associated  with  chronic  active  gastritis, peptic  ulcer  disease,  and  gastric  carcinoma.  Understanding  the  mode  of transmission  of   H. pylori is  essential  to  limit  its  spread  and  serious  associated diseases.  Most  infections  are  acquired  in  childhood  and  some  risk  factors associated  with  childhood  infection  include  poor  sanitation, overcrowding, bed sharing, and lower socio-economic status. The theory of direct person-to-person spread is now generally accepted, but the route of transmission remains open to conjecture. The evidence linking H. pylori with peptic ulcer disease and low-grade MALToma is extremely strong. However, the association with gastro-oesophageal reflux disease, non-ulcer dyspepsia and its synergism with NSAIDs in the causation of  ulcers  remains  controversial. The  infection  can  be  diagnosed  by  invasive (endoscopic)  and  non-invasive  testing.  Current  therapy  is  highly  effective  in eradicating the organism.
 

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