H. pylori infection (helicobacter pylori)

Description Helicobacter pylori...

Description

Helicobacter pylori bacteria infect the lining of the stomach, causing inflammation. They can spread from one person to another by contact with infected saliva or stool. It is a common bacteria found in two-thirds of the world's population. Individuals may be asymptomatic while others develop symptoms related to gastritis or peptic ulcers. H. pylori infection is associated with a higher risk of certain types of stomach cancer.

Symptoms

The majority of patients with a H. pylori infection do not have symptoms. Others may experience upper abdominal discomfort, pain, bloating and nausea. When it causes severe gastritis or peptic ulcers, people may have internal bleeding with vomiting, bloody or black stools, lightheadedness and marked fatigue.

Tests

Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment

Workup:
A history and physical will be performed. Blood and possibly imaging tests may be performed depending on the symptoms. The diagnosis is usually confirmed by results of a urea breath test, stool test or an endoscopic biopsy.

Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), Electrocardiogram (EKG), Lipase

Other Specific Tests: Urea breath test, H. pylori antigen test, H. pylori antibody test, stomach biopsy, CT scan

Specialist:
Gastroenterology, Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Family Practice, Pediatric Gastroenterology

Treatment

Treatment is usually dependent on whether an individual has evidence of ulcer disease. Individuals who are asymptomatic are generally not treated although this may not always be the case and the physician may decide differently based on a patient's health history. The treatment usually involves the use of three medications for a period of 7 to 14 days. The usual medicines are a proton pump inhibitor (such as lansoprazole or pantoprazole) and two different antibiotics.