Helicobacter pylori and peptic ulcer diseases

ABSTRACT

The recent recognition of the association between Helicobacter pylori and peptic ulcer disease (PUD) has revolutionised the approach to the management of ulcers. Up to 95 percent of patients with duodenal ulcers and 70-80 percent with gastric ulcers have H. pylori infection. Peptic ulcer disease is a chronic recurrent disorder. The eradication of H. pylori in patients with PUD results in a significant decrease in the relapse rate of ulceration and alters the natural history of PUD. Several regimes are available for H. pylori eradication and most include two antibiotics given for a least seven days. Patients with either a first or recurrent attacks of peptic ulcer should be considered for eradication therapy. These patients should also receive an adequate course of an antisecretory medication for promotion of ulcer healing.(AU)