SHM's Clinical Quick Talks-Helicobacter pylori, a Spirochetal Infection

Pdf Summary

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a spirochete bacterium that infects around 50% of the global population, with higher rates in developing countries. It survives in the stomach by breaking down urea into neutralizing agents, causing inflammation and tissue damage. Transmission routes are unclear but may include fecal-oral or oral-oral routes. Symptoms include abdominal pain, weight loss, nausea, and vomiting. Diagnostic methods range from invasive procedures like esophagogastroduodenoscopy to non-invasive tests like urea breath and stool antigen tests. Treatment involves triple therapy with antibiotics and proton pump inhibitors for 14 days, followed by second-line quadruple therapy if needed. Complications can include an increased risk of gastric cancer. Not all infected individuals show symptoms, highlighting the need for testing in certain conditions like peptic ulcer disease. Preventative measures include hygiene practices like clean water consumption and thorough handwashing. This overview highlights the importance of diagnosing and treating H. pylori infections to prevent complications like gastric cancer and ensures necessary steps are taken for eradication and prevention.

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Kimberly Tena Diaz, Jonah Landau, Sabrina Gordon

Keywords

Helicobacter pylori

Spirochete bacterium

Stomach infection

Transmission routes

Symptoms

Diagnostic methods

Treatment

Complications

Preventative measures

Gastric cancer risk