Helicobacter pylori World Gastroenterology Organization Global Guideline

Identification and ultrasensitive quantification of H. pylori infections on gastric and stool human samples with a photonic label-free nanobiosensor

Helicobacter pylori is a widespread bacterium that infects the stomach, causing gastric disorders associated with high morbidity and mortality worldwide. Current methods for identifying and quantifying this pathogen rely on invasive and non-invasive tests. Although combining these methods allows accurate diagnosis, they have multiple drawbacks, and there is no single reliable gold standard test. New, more sensitive strategies involving molecular techniques, such as digital PCR, have been developed but require complex and expensive instruments. Herein, we implement and validat a nanophotonic bimodal waveguide (BiMW) biosensor for the sensitive and accurate detection of H. pylori in gastric biopsies and stool. This biosensor offers real-time, label-free detection, high sensitivity, and the capability to be integrated into compact devices. By employing monoclonal antibodies targeting specific membrane proteins found in H. pylori, the biosensor enables unique recognition of the bacterium, demonstrating its potential as an alternative diagnostic tool. The BiMW biosensor provides highly accurate H. pylori quantification in under 20 min, with limits of detection (LOD) of 89 ± 35 CFU/mL for antrum gastric biopsies and 82 ± 9 CFU/mL for stool samples. Clinical validation with 40 samples (20 gastric biopsies and 20 stool samples) showed sensitivity and specificity of 90 % for gastric biopsies and 95 % for stool samples, offering diagnostic reliability equivalent to semiquantitative ELISA tests and enabling more efficient and timely detection of H. pylori infections. This test can significantly improve the speed of diagnosis and contribute to the development of more effective strategies for H. pylori eradication.

Infectious Agents and Esophageal Cancer: A Comprehensive Review

Esophageal cancer, primarily comprising the squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) and adenocarcinoma (EAC) subtypes, is the sixth leading cause of cancer deaths globally. In addition to many well-established endogenous and exogenous risk factors, there is emerging evidence for the etiologic role of infectious agents in esophageal cancer, although these associations are incompletely understood. Here, we review the currently available literature on the relationship between infectious agents and esophageal cancer. By far, human papilloma virus (HPV), particularly HPV 16 and 18, have the strongest etiologic association with ESCC. Less robust is the association of high-risk HPV (hr-HPV) with EAC. Although H. pylori has been implicated in the development of EAC via increased acid reflux, decreased lower esophageal sphincter tone, and the resultant Barrett's metaplasia-dysplasia-adenocarcinoma pathway, some hypothesize based on epidemiological trends that H. pylori may in fact be a protective factor. In rare cases, EBV can cause esophageal lymphoepithelial carcinoma. Several other agents including HSV, polyomaviruses, and Candida are associated with esophageal cancer to varying degrees. In summary, while several studies, including those conflicting with each other, implicate several infectious agents, the evidence is weak, at best. Clearly, further work is needed to help solidify clear etiologies that will help facilitate prevention and treatment.

A Comparative Analysis of the Clinical Application of a Novel Helicobacter pylori Serum Antibody Typing Test and the 13C-Urea Breath Test

Background/Objectives: To compare and analyze the application of a Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori, Hp) serum antibody typing test (Hp-sATT) and the 13C-urea breath test (13C-UBT) in the diagnosis of Hp infection against an empirical therapy background. Methods: The detection of Hp-sATT using a combination of the quantum dot immunofluorescence method and the 13C-UBT was carried out in 237 patients who visited the Department of Gastroenterology at Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital. The diagnostic consistency and correlation with gastric lesions of the two detection methods were analyzed by integrating the detection results, clinical information, and special staining of Hp in histopathological tissues (SS-Hp). Results: For the 13C-UBT, 104 (43.88%) cases were positive and 133 (56.12%) were negative. Positive results were found in 127 (53.59%) patients by using the Hp-sATT, with 67 (28.27%) cases of Type I Hp infection and 60 (25.32%) cases of Type II Hp infection. The consistency analysis between the Hp-sATT and 13C-UBT for all the patients showed a Kappa value of 0.339 (p < 0.001); the consistency analysis between the Hp-sATT and the 127 patients with SS-Hp showed a Kappa value of 0.427 (p < 0.001); and the consistency analysis between the 13C-UBT and the 127 patients with SS-Hp indicated a Kappa value of 0.621 (p < 0.001). However, in 191 patients without a history of Hp eradication, the consistency analysis results for the three methods improved, with Kappa values of 0.467 (p < 0.001) and 0.457 (p < 0.001) for the Hp-sATT with the 13C-UBT and SS-Hp, respectively, and 0.646 (p < 0.001) for the 13C-UBT with SS-Hp. In addition, a positive correlation was found between the signal values of anti-urease antibodies and the Delta Over Baseline (DOB) values of the 13C-UBT. The results also indicated that Hp-infected patients exhibited more pronounced gastric lesions, while cases with Type I Hp infection did not. Conclusions: In patients without a history of Hp eradication, the consistency between the Hp-sATT and 13C-UBT is moderate. However, Hp eradication therapy can reduce the consistency of the test results. When screening for Hp infection using the Hp-sATT, it is necessary to consider the patient's history of Hp eradication.

Vonoprazan improves the efficacy of bismuth quadruple therapy containing doxycycline and metronidazole as first-line Helicobacter pylori treatment in penicillin-allergic patients: a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Helicobacter pylori eradication in penicillin-allergic patients presents challenges. Options of effective regimens are lacking in areas where tetracycline is unavailable.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the efficacy of replacing the proton pump inhibitor (PPI) with a potassium-competitive acid blocker (P-CAB, vonoprazan) in standard bismuth quadruple therapy containing doxycycline and metronidazole as a first-line treatment for H. pylori.

METHODS

This prospective randomized clinical trial enrolled 332 naive patients with H. pylori infection and penicillin allergy. Participants were randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to either the 14 day P-CAB/BDM group (vonoprazan 20 mg twice daily, colloidal bismuth 200 mg twice daily, doxycycline 100 mg twice daily and metronidazole 400 mg three times daily) or the 14 day PPI/BDM group (rabeprazole 10 mg twice daily, and the same dose of the three other drugs as in the 14 day P-CAB/BDM group).

RESULTS

Eradication rates in the P-CAB/BDM and PPI/BDM groups were 90.4% and 71.1% (P value for superiority was 0.013), respectively, by ITT analysis. The efficacy of P-CAB/BDM remained non-inferior and even superior to PPI/BDM therapy in all ITT, modified ITT and PP analyses. The overall frequency of adverse events (39.8% and 40.4%; P = 0.911) and compliance (88.0% and 91.0%; P = 0.372) were similar between P-CAB and PPI regimens. Patients with higher body surface area were significantly associated with eradication failure in both groups (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The 14 day P-CAB/BDM therapy provided a satisfactory eradication rate of >90% (ITT analysis) and had a good safety profile as first-line H. pylori therapy, providing an alternative option for penicillin-allergic patients.

Evaluation of optimized Real time-PCR HRM assay and SPR-based biosensor for noninvasive isolation of H. pylori and Clarithromycin resistance 23S-SNP subtype

High Resolution Melting analysis is a highly sensitive molecular method, and the plasmonic-based sensor is a convenient test, be clinically elicited, in simultaneous H. pylori control and the prevention of Clarithromycin resistant strains related to SNPs. Comparing gold standard tests, we evaluated HRMA and the SPR-based biosensor in regard to noninvasive forms of H. pylori management, and explored resistance through a possible mechanism by 23S-SNPs.We optimized Realtime-PCR HRM analysis, and SPR-based biosensor. Referring to CTs ± 38, isolation sensitivity was evaluated at 74 %. Compared to the reference-test, results agreements were assessed with a kappa of 43 %, p = 0.001. Within melting plots (differentiation plot), the strains were detectable at Tms ranging from 81.5 to 82.3 (°C). Contributing to phenotypically determined resistant strains for 44 %, there was a wide distribution among resistant variants assessed through Tms of 82, 81.5, 82, 82.3, and 81.7 (°C). A2143C was the only mutation isolated at a specific Tm of 82.3°C; kappa = 8 %, p = 0.3. For sensing analysis, including 100 % specificity, this sensor type was associated with lower sensitivity of 49 %, kappa=19 %, p = 0. 01. For SNP, specificity, kappa value, and p-value of isolation were 100 %, 100 %, and 0.001. Lod was 0.003 ng/mL and 0.03 µg/mL for HRM assay and sensing analysis. In our evaluations, applicable priority of HRM analysis was the higher estimation of sensitivity; its differentiation plot was completely covered the results of strain variability regarding specific SNPs detection. Consistent with the biosensor for isolation of SNP, the development of biosensors is the necessity for noninvasive H. pylori detection.

Efficacy and safety of vonoprazan-amoxicillin dual therapy versus bismuth-containing quadruple therapy for patients with Helicobacter pylori infection: a meta-analysis

Introduction

This meta-analysis aims to compare the efficacy and safety of vonoprazan-amoxicillin (VA) dual therapy in comparison to bismuth-containing quadruple therapy (BQT) for patients with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection.

Materials and methods

Four databases (PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library) were searched published from establishment of database to June 1, 2024, for articles studying VA dual therapy compared to BQT for patients with H. pylori infection. Meta-analyses of eradication rates, adverse events, compliance and cost were preformed.

Results

A total of 17 studies were included for meta-analysis. Compared with BQT, VA increased the incidence of H. pylori eradication rate, with significant difference under the ITT analysis (86.9% vs. 80.4%, RR = 1.07, 95% CI: 1.01-1.12, p = 0.01) but there no significant difference under the PP analysis (90.7% vs. 86.5%, RR = 1.03, 95% CI: 0.99-1.08, p = 0.13). Besides, VA significantly increased compliance (RR = 1.03, 95% CI: 1.01-1.05, p < 0.01) and decreased the occurrence of total adverse events (27.0% vs. 11.5%, RR = 0.43, 95% CI: 0.37-0.51, p < 0.01). Furthermore, VA has lower cost compared to BQT.

Conclusion

Our findings indicated that VA dual therapy provided a higher eradication rate, enhanced compliance, decreased adverse events, and lowered cost relative to BQT for patients with H. pylori infection.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42024576738, identifier CRD42024576738 (PROSPERO).

Efficacy and safety of Saccharomyces boulardii as an adjuvant therapy for the eradication of Helicobacter pylori: a meta-analysis

Background

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is highly prevalent worldwide and is closely associated with many gastric conditions. Current methods for eradicating H. pylori include triple or quadruple therapy, including antibiotics, proton pump inhibitors, and bismuth agents; however, with antibiotic abuse and increased drug resistance rates, the effectiveness of traditional methods is gradually decreasing, with many adverse effects such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and intolerance. In recent years, there has been controversy regarding whether adding Saccharomyces boulardii (S. boulardii) to traditional therapies is beneficial for eradicating H. pylori.

Aim

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of S. boulardii as an adjuvant therapy for the eradication of H. pylori.

Methods

We systematically searched the PubMed and Web of Science databases from January 2002 to January 2023. The primary outcome was the H. pylori eradication rate. The secondary outcomes included total adverse effects, abdominal pain, diarrhea, bloating, constipation, nausea, vomiting, taste disorders, and other adverse reactions. We evaluated the included studies for publication bias and heterogeneity. Fixed- and random-effects models were used for studies without and with heterogeneity, respectively, to calculate the risk ratios (RRs) and conduct sensitivity and subgroup analyses.

Results

Nineteen studies comprising 5,036 cases of H. pylori infection were included in this meta-analysis. The addition of S. boulardii to traditional therapy significantly improved the H. pylori eradication rate [RR=1.11, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.08-1.15] and reduced the incidence of total adverse effects (RR=0.49, 95% CI: 0.37-0.66), diarrhea (RR=0.36, 95% CI: 0.26-0.48), abdominal distension (RR=0.49, 95% CI: 0.33-0.72), constipation (RR=0.38, 95% CI: 0.26-0.57), and nausea (RR=0.50, 95% CI: 0.37-0.68). However, it did not reduce the occurrence of abdominal pain, vomiting, or taste disorders.

Conclusions

S. boulardii supplementation in traditional eradication therapy significantly improves the H. pylori eradication rate and reduces the total adverse effects and incidence of diarrhea, bloating, constipation, and nausea.

Systematic review registration

Prospero, identifier CRD42024549780.

Management of Patients With Refractory Reflux-Like Symptoms Despite Proton Pump Inhibitor Therapy: Evidence-Based Consensus Statements

BACKGROUND

Many patients diagnosed with gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD) have persistent symptoms despite proton pump inhibitor (PPI) therapy.

AIMS

The aim of this consensus is to provide evidence-based statements to guide clinicians caring for patients with refractory reflux-like symptoms (rRLS) or refractory GERD.

METHODS

This consensus was developed by the International Working Group for the Classification of Oesophagitis. The steering committee developed specific PICO questions pertaining to the management of PPI rRLS. Methodologists conducted systematic reviews of the literature. The quality of evidence and strength of recommendations were rated using the GRADE approach.

RESULTS

Consensus was reached on 13 of 17 statements on diagnosis and management. For rRLS, suggested diagnostic strategies included endoscopy, ambulatory reflux testing and oesophageal manometry. The group did not reach consensus on the role of oesophageal biopsies or the use of reflux-symptom association in patients undergoing reflux testing. The group suggested against increasing the PPI dose in patients who had received 8 weeks of a twice-daily PPI. Adjunctive alginate or antacid therapy was suggested. There was no consensus on the role of adjunctive prokinetics. There was little role for adjunctive transient lower oesophageal sphincter relaxation (TLESR) inhibitors or bile acid sequestrants. Endoscopic or surgical anti-reflux procedures should not be performed in patients with rRLS in the absence of objectively confirmed GERD.

CONCLUSIONS

The management of rRLS should be personalised, based on shared decision-making regarding the role of diagnostic testing to confirm or rule out GERD as a basis for treatment optimisation. Anti-reflux procedures should not be performed without objective confirmation of GERD.

The effectiveness of probiotics or synbiotics in the prevention and treatment of diarrhea among critically ill adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Diarrhea is one of the most common complications among patients in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). Alongside common medical products for managing diarrhea, attention has been directed toward natural approaches, such as the use of probiotics or synbiotics supplements. The purpose of this review is to evaluate the effectiveness of probiotics or synbiotics in the prevention and treatment of diarrhea, mortality, and length of ICU stay.

METHODS

In adherence to the guidelines outlined in the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyzes (PRISMA) statement, a systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted. Relevant articles were identified by searching PubMed, SpringerLink, and ScienceDirect databases. Quality assessment was done using Cochrane Collaboration's tool for randomized-controlled trials (ROB2).

RESULTS

6305 articles were identified, of which 14 papers were included. Probiotics reduced the risk of diarrhea by 10 %; however, the result was not statistically significant [Risk Ratio (RR) = 0.90; 95 % Confidence Interval (CI): 0.77 to 1.05; P = 0.16; I2 = 29 %; 13 studies]. No statistical significance was found among studies regarding reducing the duration of diarrhea, with considerable heterogeneity [RR = - 0.53; 95 % CI: -1.46 to 0.41; P = 0.27; I2 = 71 %, 5 studies]. Neither the length of ICU stays nor the mortality rate was affected by the use of probiotics or synbiotics.

CONCLUSION

Probiotics or synbiotics appear to slightly reduce the incidence of diarrhea among ICU patients. However, this effect is considered statistically significant only after conducting sensitivity and subgroup analyses. Further high-quality clinical trials are required to evaluate the potential of probiotics or synbiotics in the treatment of diarrhea among critically ill patients.

Diagnostic immunohistochemistry use in Belgian laboratories

OBJECTIVES

In Belgium, the use of IHC testing has grown in the last decade. However, there is a lack of information on the specific indications for which it is reimbursed. The aim of the study is to offer an overview on the use of diagnostic inmunohistochemistry (IHC) testing and its recent trends.

METHODS

Our analysis is limited to reimbursed use, which in Belgium is restricted to a maximum of 4 different IHC stains per sampling session for diagnostic IHC. Consulted sources included data from the compulsory health insurance, and data extracted from a sample of pathology reports gathered from Belgian laboratories for the year 2019.

RESULTS

Over the last 10 years, the use of IHC in Belgium grew from 729 030 stains in 2012 to 1,194,331 in 2019, an increase of 63.8 % while the increase in the number of histological or cytological examinations was 13.3 %. The main stains used in 2019 were H. pylori, Ki-67 and broad spectrum CK, which were used in multiple body sites, reflecting the difficulties to identify specific indications. The gastro-intestinal tract is the body site with the highest number of IHC stains (38.2 % of all stains performed), and the most frequently used stain in gastro intestinal biopsies were H. pylori (43.1 %), and CD3 (6.8 %).

CONCLUSION

This study offers an overview of the most frequent indications for which diagnostic IHC staining is used in Belgium, and reflects the evolving nature of this field, highlighting the importance to increase clarity and improve data collection.

Helicobacter pylori infection and associated risk factors among HIV-positive and HIV-negative individuals in Northern Ethiopia

BACKGROUND

H. pylori infection is a common bacterial infection worldwide, but its prevalence varies widely between different regions and populations. The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of H. pylori infection and associated risk factors among HIV-positive and HIV-negative individuals in northern Ethiopia.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted from June to September 2020 in four randomly selected health facilities located in the Tigray region of Ethiopia. A total of 463 study participants were enrolled, of whom 288 were HIV-positive and 175 were HIV-negative individuals. H. pylori stool antigen tests were performed to detect H. pylori infection. Additionally, CD4+ T cell counts were measured from only a certain number of participants.

RESULTS

The overall prevalence of H. pylori infection among enrolled study participants was 39.7 %. Notably, the H. pylori infection rate was significantly higher in HIV-positive patients (43.4 %) compared to HIV-negative individuals (33.7 %); χ2 = 4.27, p = 0.039. Higher H. pylori prevalence was observed in participants with higher CD4+ T cell counts in both HIV-positive and HIV-negative individuals. Khat chewing habit, education, and monthly income levels were significantly associated with H. pylori infection in HIV-negative individuals, while the association between Body mass index (BMI) and H. pylori infection was observed in HIV-positive patients, but not HIV-negative individuals.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates a higher prevalence of H. pylori infection in HIV-positive patients compared to HIV-negative individuals, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive diagnostics, patient care, and management of H. pylori infection in HIV-positive individuals.

The efficacy and safety of Vonoprazan and Tegoprazan in Helicobacter pylori eradication: a comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Background

Potassium-competitive acid blocker (P-CAB)-based therapies are emerging as promising alternatives for eradicating Helicobacter pylori infection. However, the comparative efficacy of P-CAB-based therapy versus proton-pump inhibitor (PPI)-based therapy in treating H. pylori infection remains uncertain.

Objectives

This meta-analysis evaluated the efficacy and safety of P-CAB-based therapies, including Vonoprazan (VPZ) and Tegoprazan (TPZ), compared to PPI-based therapies for H. pylori infection. Subgroup analysis assessed the influence of drug history, experimental drug, treatment duration, combination therapies, and geographic regions on treatment outcomes.

Design

Meta-analysis.

Data sources and methods

Comprehensive searches were conducted in major databases, including PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Library, and Web of Science, up to January 1, 2024. The primary outcome was the eradication rate, analyzed by intention-to-treat (ITT). Secondary outcomes included adverse events. Heterogeneity among studies was assessed using the χ2 test and the I 2 test. I 2 > 50% or p < 0.05 indicated significant heterogeneity.

Results

The analysis totally included 28 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comprising 37 studies and 8818 patients diagnosed with H. pylori infection. Of these, 14 RCTs, including 20 studies and 4286 patients, compared P-CAB-based therapy with 14-day bismuth-based quadruple therapy (BQT). P-CAB-based therapy exhibited superior eradication rates compared to both 14-day BQT and PPI-based therapy (ITT analysis: 87.0% vs 79.8%, risk ratio (RR) = 1.08, 95% CI: 1.04-1.12, p < 0.0001; and 85.6% vs 77.8%, RR = 1.09, 95% CI: 1.05-1.12, p < 0.00001, respectively). This enhanced efficacy was particularly pronounced in patients with clarithromycin-resistant infections (73.7% vs 41.5%, RR = 1.53, 95% CI: 1.07-2.20, p = 0.02). Subgroup analysis demonstrated higher eradication rates with P-CAB-based therapy in treatment-naïve participants, VPZ recipients, and those receiving 7- or 14-day regimens (dual, triple, or quadruple therapy). However, no significant differences were observed in treatment-experienced subgroups, TPZ recipients, or those on 10-day regimens. In addition, P-CAB-based therapy showed a lower incidence of adverse events than PPI-based treatments (RR = 0.73, 95% CI: 0.63-0.86, p < 0.0001).

Conclusion

P-CAB-based therapies are more effective than traditional PPI-based treatments for eradicating H. pylori infection, with a reduced incidence of adverse events.

PROSPERO registration

CRD42024503665.

Managing Helicobacter pylori as an Infectious Disease: Implementation of Antimicrobial Stewardship

Helicobacter pylori is prevalent globally and implicated in various gastric diseases and malignancies. Rising antibiotic resistance has increasingly compromised the effectiveness of standard H. pylori eradication therapies. This review explores the role of antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) as a structured approach to optimizing H. pylori management through the "5D" strategy: Diagnosis-utilizing advanced diagnostic tools to accurately detect bacterial resistance; Drug-selecting antibiotics tailored to resistance profiles and patient-specific factors; Dosage-optimizing dosing and frequency based on pharmacokinetic properties to maximize efficacy; Duration-employing shorter treatment courses where supported by evidence; and Discontinuation-balancing the benefits and risks of repeated antibiotic treatments. We discuss recent advances in diagnostic technologies, such as polymerase chain reaction and next-generation sequencing, and their impact on therapeutic decision-making. Additionally, we evaluate treatment regimens, with a particular focus on emerging alternatives such as regimens containing potassium-competitive acid blockers. Given the growing global resistance and limited pipeline for new antibiotics, we advocate for a more strategic and resource-conscious approach to H. pylori management, integrating AMS principles within the "One Health" framework to address the pathogen's transmission across humans, animals, and the environment. With advancements in resistance testing and diagnostics, H. pylori therapies are likely to become increasingly personalized and precise. To achieve this, effective AMS implementation necessitates interdisciplinary collaboration to maximize therapeutic outcomes, minimize adverse effects, combat resistance, and reduce healthcare costs.

Eradication of Helicobacter pylori by a potassium-competitive acid blocker alone?

AIMS

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), the dominating cause of gastric cancer, most often infects children initiating inflammation in the antral part and spreads orally to the oxyntic mucosa. Traditionally, eradication of H. pylori has been based upon a combination of antibiotics together with a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) to reduce gastric destruction of the antibiotics. Recently it has been shown that the more efficient inhibitors of acid secretion, the potassium-competitive acid blockers (PCABs) in combination with amoxicillin alone gave highly sufficient H. pylori eradication.

METHODS

To further elucidate the importance of gastric acidity we studied the literature for the connection between gastric acidity and the presence of H. pylori.

RESULTS

It is well-known that H. pylori is dependent of some acidity in the surroundings to neutralize NH3 produced by its urease, explaining the loss of H. pylori in total oxyntic atrophy. With adequate dosing PCABs can induce almost complete anacidity for 24-h which probably is necessary for H. pylori eradication. Even a short period with hypergastrinemia may induce mutations in the target cell of gastrin, the enterochromaffin-like (ECL) cell which may contribute to the relatively short interval between H. pylori eradication and gastric cancer in the users of profound acid inhibitors.

CONCLUSION

The use of PCABs alone dosed sufficiently seems promising for H. pylori eradication, but a combination with a gastrin antagonist would be preferable.

Active Helicobacter pylori Infection Does Not Influence Outcomes After Sleeve Gastrectomy-Observational Cohort Study

Background: Helicobacter pylori (HP) is under investigation for its potential role in postoperative complications. While some studies indicate no impact, they often cite short or incomplete follow-up. This study aims to compare 1-year outcomes in groups with and without active HP infection after bariatric surgery, also assessing HP prevalence in postoperative specimens of sleeve gastrectomy (SG) patients. Methods: Conducted between May 2020 and May 2021, this study involves both retrospective and prospective data collection from 93 eligible SG patients. Demographics, surgical outcomes and follow-up results (including complications; weight and BMI at 3, 6 and 12 months post-SG) were extracted. Results: No statistically significant differences in body weight were observed at 3 (p = 0.3757), 6 (p = 0.1422) or 12 (p = 0.2737) months post-surgery between the HP-positive (Group A) and non-infected (Group B) groups. Group A experienced significant reductions in body weight at 6 and 12 months (p < 0.0001), while group B showed significant reductions at 3, 6 and 12 months (p < 0.0001), with additional decreases at 6 and 12 months post-surgery compared to 3 months. No significant differences in overall surgery-related side effects were observed between the groups. Conclusions: Patients with active HP infections undergoing SG displayed comparable rates of short- and long-term complications to the non-infected group. Active HP infection did not impact body weight loss outcomes at 12 months, but it may potentially slow it down in the initial three-month post-surgery period. This underscores the need to consider eradication while maintaining awareness of the potential side effects associated with the process.

The role of MAPK pathway in gastric cancer: unveiling molecular crosstalk and therapeutic prospects

Gastric cancer remains a significant health burden globally, especially prevalent in Asian and European regions. Despite a notable decline in incidence in the United States and Western Europe over recent decades, the disease's persistence underscores the urgency for advanced research in its pathogenesis and treatment strategies. Central to this pursuit is the exploration of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway, a pivotal cellular mechanism implicated in the complex processes of gastric cancer development, including cellular proliferation, invasion, migration, and metastasis. The MAPK or extracellular signal-regulated kinase pathway serves as a crucial conduit for transmitting extracellular signals to elicit intracellular responses, with its signaling cascades subject to alterations due to genetic and epigenetic variations across various diseases, prominently cancer. This review delves into the intricate role of the MAPK signaling pathway in the pathogenesis of gastric cancer, drawing upon the most recent and critical studies that shed light on MAPK pathway alterations as a gateway to the disease. It highlights the pathway's involvement in Helicobacter pylori-mediated gastric carcinogenesis and the tumorigenic processes induced by the Epstein-Barr virus, showcasing the substantial influence of miRNAs and lncRNAs in modulating gastric cancer's biological properties through their interaction with the MAPK pathway. Furthermore, the review extends into the therapeutic arena, discussing the promising impacts of herbal medicines, MAPK pathway inhibitors, and immunosuppressants on mitigating gastric cancer's progression. Through an exhaustive examination of the MAPK pathway's multifaceted role in gastric cancer, from molecular crosstalks to therapeutic prospects, this review aspires to contribute to the ongoing efforts in understanding and combating this global health challenge, paving the way for novel therapeutic interventions and improved patient outcomes.

Global prevalence of Helicobacter pylori antibiotic resistance among children in the world health organization regions between 2000 and 2023: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Helicobacter pylori infection causes gastritis, peptic ulcers, and gastric cancer. The infection is typically acquired in childhood and persists throughout life. The major impediment to successful therapy is antibiotic resistance. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to comprehensively assess the global prevalence of antibiotic resistance in pediatric H. pylori infection.

METHODS

We performed a systematic search of publication databases that assessed H. pylori resistance rates to clarithromycin, metronidazole, levofloxacin, amoxicillin, and tetracycline in children. The WHO region classification was used to group pooled primary and secondary resistance estimates along with 95% confidence interval (CI). H. pylori antibiotic resistance rates were retrieved and combined with odds ratios (95% CI) to investigate the global prevalence and temporal trends. Subgroup analysis of the prevalence of antibiotic resistance was conducted by country, age groups, and susceptibility testing methods.

RESULTS

Among 1417 records obtained initially, 152 studies were selected for eligibility assessment after applying exclusion criteria in multiple steps. Ultimately, 63 studies involving 15,953 individuals were included comprising data from 28 countries in 5 WHO regions. The primary resistance rates were metronidazole 35.3% (5482/15,529, 95% CI: 28.7-42.6), clarithromycin 32.6% (5071/15,555, 95% CI: 27.7-37.9), tetracycline 2.1% (148/7033, 95% CI: 1.3-3.6), levofloxacin 13.2% (1091/8271, 95% CI: 9.3-18.4), and amoxicillin 4.8% (495/10305, 95% CI: 2.5-8.8). Raising antibiotic resistance was detected in most WHO regions.

CONCLUSIONS

The escalating trend of H. pylori antibiotic resistance in children warrants urgent attention globally. National and regional surveillance networks are required for antibiotic stewardship in children infected with H. pylori.

Helicobacter pylori Inhibition, Gastritis Attenuation, and Gut Microbiota Protection in C57BL/6 Mice by Ligilactobacillus salivarius NCUH062003

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), one of the most prevalent pathogenic bacteria worldwide, is the leading cause of gastritis, gastric intestinal metaplasia, and gastric cancer. Antibiotics, the conventional treatment for eliminating H. pylori, often lead to severe bacterial resistance, gut dysbiosis, and hepatic insufficiency and fail to address the inflammatory response or gastric mucosal damage caused by H. pylori infection. In this study, based on 10-week animal experiments, two models of L. salivarius NCUH062003 for the prophylaxis and therapy of H. pylori infection in C57BL/6 mice were established; a comprehensive comparative analysis was performed to investigate the anti-H. pylori effect of probiotics, the reduction in inflammation, and repair of gastric mucosal damage. ELISA, immunohistochemistry, and pathology analyses showed that NCUH062003 decreased the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokine interleukins (IL-1β, IL-6) and myeloperoxidase (MPO) and reduced neutrophil infiltration in the gastric mucosa lamina propria. Immunofluorescence and biochemical analysis showed that NCUH062003 resisted gastric epithelial cell apoptosis, increased the level of superoxide dismutase (SOD) in gastric mucosa, and promoted the expression of tight junction protein ZO1 and Occludin. In addition, through high-throughput sequencing, in the probiotic therapy and prophylactic mode, the diversity and composition of the gut microbiota of HP-infected mice were clarified, the potential functions of the gut microbiota were analyzed, the levels of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) were measured, and the effects of L. salivarius NCUH062003 on the gut microbiota and its metabolites in HP-infected mice treated with amoxicillin/metronidazole were revealed. This study provides functional strain resources for the development and application of microbial agents seeking to antagonize H. pylori beyond antibiotics.

Prevalence and Risk Factors of Helicobacter pylori Infection in Elderly Patients With Upper Gastrointestinal Symptoms in Vietnam

Background and Aim

Helicobacter pylori infection is a major cause of peptic ulcer disease and gastric cancer. Limited data exist on H. pylori prevalence and risk factors of infection among elderly individuals in Vietnam. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and associated risk factors of H. pylori infection in elderly Vietnamese patients with upper gastrointestinal symptoms.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted on patients aged ≥ 60 years with upper gastrointestinal symptoms who underwent endoscopy. The exclusion criteria included recent antibiotic or proton pump inhibitor use, prior H. pylori eradication, or upper gastrointestinal surgery. Data on demographics, hygiene, diet, and history were collected through structured questionnaires. H. pylori was diagnosed by a rapid urease test. Logistic regression was used to analyze risk factors.

Results

Of 406 participants (mean age 65.4 ± 4.5 years, male-to-female ratio 1:2), H. pylori prevalence was 55.6%. The risk factors for H. pylori infection included infrequent tooth brushing (OR 18.14, 95% CI 3.94-83.55), overweight/obesity (OR 5.82, 95% CI 3.44-9.88), spicy food consumption (OR 5.18, 95% CI 2.74-9.79), a family history of upper gastrointestinal symptoms (OR 3.15, 95% CI 1.84-5.39), and cat ownership (OR 2.01, 95% CI 1.10-3.68). The vegetarian diet was protective (OR 0.04, 95% CI 0.01-0.18).

Conclusions

H. pylori prevalence in elderly Vietnamese is high, with risk factors including poor hygiene, obesity, spicy food, family history, and cat ownership. A vegetarian diet may be protective.

Prevalence of Helicobacter pylori infection in China from 2014-2023: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) stands as the predominant infectious agent linked to the onset of gastritis, peptic ulcer diseases, and gastric cancer (GC). Identified as the exclusive bacterial factor associated with the onset of GC, it is classified as a group 1 carcinogen by the World Health Organization. The elimination of H. pylori plays a crucial role in the primary prevention of GC. While the prevalence has declined in recent decades, H. pylori infection is still highly prevalent in China, accounting for a significant part of the disease burden of GC. Therefore, updated prevalence information for H. pylori infection, especially regional and demographic variations in China, is an important basis for the design of targeted strategies that will be effective for the prevention of GC and application of policies for H. pylori control.

AIM

To methodically evaluate the occurrence of H. pylori infection throughout China and establish a reference point for subsequent investigations.

METHODS

A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted following established guidelines, as detailed in our methodology section.

RESULTS

Our review synthesized data from 152 studies, covering a sample of 763827 individuals, 314423 of whom were infected with H. pylori. We evaluated infection rates in mainland China and the combined prevalence of H. pylori was 42.8% (95%CI: 40.7-44.9). Subgroup analysis indicated the highest prevalence in Northwest China at 51.3% (95%CI: 45.6-56.9), and in Qinghai Province, the prevalence reached 60.2% (95%CI: 46.5-73.9). The urea breath test, which recorded the highest infection rate, showed a prevalence of 43.7% (95%CI: 41.4-46.0). No notable differences in infection rates were observed between genders. Notably, the prevalence among the elderly was significantly higher at 44.5% (95%CI: 41.9-47.1), compared to children, who showed a prevalence of 27.5% (95%CI: 19.58-34.7).

CONCLUSION

Between 2014 and 2023, the prevalence of H. pylori infection in China decreased to 42.8%, down from the previous decade. However, the infection rates vary considerably across different geographical areas, among various populations, and by detection methods employed.

Bioactive Properties of Campomanesia lineatifolia: Correlation Between Anti-Helicobacter pylori Activity, Antioxidant Potential and Chemical Composition

Helicobacter pylori is found in the stomach of patients with chronic gastritis and peptic ulcers, infecting approximately half of the world's population. Current treatment for H. pylori infection involves a multi-drug therapeutic regime with various adverse effects, which leads to treatment abandonment and contributes to the emergence of resistant strains of H. pylori. Previously, we demonstrated that the essential oil of Campomanesia lineatifolia leaves exhibited an anti-H. pylori activity. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the phenolic content of the phenolic-rich ethanol extract (PEE) from C. lineatifolia and its anti-H. pylori and antioxidant properties. Additionally, the anti-H. pylori activity was assessed in polar and non-polar fractions from PEE, isolated myricitrin (MYR) and a mixture of myricitrin and quercitrin (MYR/QUER) from polar fractions, and aqueous extract (tea) to correlate the responsible fractions or compounds with the observed activity. Broth microdilution assays were performed to assess the anti-H. pylori activity using type cultures (ATCC 49503, NCTC 11638, both clarithromycin-sensitive) and clinical isolate strains (SSR359, clarithromycin-sensitive, and SSR366, clarithromycin-resistant). The antioxidant activity was evaluated using the DPPH assay. The total tannin and flavonoid contents were determined using the hide-powder method, the Folin-Ciocalteu reagent, and the aluminium chloride colourimetric assay, respectively. The tea (MIC 1:100), PEE, polar and non-polar fractions, MYR, and MYR/QUER inhibited the growth of H. pylori strains tested (MIC values ranging from 0.49 to 250 μg/mL). The antioxidant assays revealed that PEE exhibited a higher antioxidant activity (EC50 = 18.47 μg/mL), which correlated to the high phenolic content (tannin and flavonoid, 22.31 and 0.15% w/w, respectively). These findings support the traditional use of C. lineatifolia as a multitarget medicinal plant for treating gastric ulcers and reinforce the potential use of the species as a coadjuvant in therapeutic regimes involving patients with resistant H. pylori infection.

Efficacy and safety of vonoprazan and high-dose amoxicillin dual therapy in eradicating Helicobacter pylori: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Vonoprazan is a new acid-suppressing drug that provides an additional choice for eradicating Helicobacter pylori. The effectiveness and safety of vonoprazan and high-dose amoxicillin (VHA) dual therapy requires study in a systematic analysis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A comprehensive search of the literature from the PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science databases was conducted up to 16 May 2024. Trials comparing H. pylori eradication rates, adverse events, and compliance of VHA dual therapy with that of other therapies were included. RevMan 5.4 was used for statistical analysis.

RESULTS

Eleven randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and two retrospective clinical studies with 4570 samples were included. VHA dual therapy had superior H. pylori eradication rates (intention-to-treat [ITT]: 86.0% vs. 80.7%; odds ratio [OR]=1.36; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.07-1.73; P=0.01; per-protocol [PP]: 90.6% vs. 85.7%; OR=1.42; 95% CI 1.07-1.88; P=0.02), fewer adverse events (15.4% vs. 27.7%; OR=0.49; 95% CI 0.35-0.68, P<0.0001), and similar compliance (94.6% vs. 93.2%; OR=1.27; 95% CI 0.98-1.64; P=0.07) compared with other guideline therapies. According to subgroup analysis with PP data, VHA dual therapy is more effective than bismuth quadruple therapy based on proton-pump inhibitors (P-BQT) (93.5% vs. 89.3%; OR=1.76; 95% CI 1.03-3.00; P=0.04). In addition, the eradication rates for 7-day, 10-day and 14-day VHA dual therapy were 65% (95% CI 0.55-0.75), 92% (95% CI 0.91-0.94) and 93% (95% CI 0.90-0.97), respectively.

CONCLUSION

VHA dual therapy for 10 or 14 days showed superior efficacy and safety compared with therapies recommended by the guidelines and should be prioritised for adoption.

Comparison of vonoprazan bismuth-containing triple therapy with quadruple therapy in Helicobacter pylori-infected treatment-naive patients: a prospective multicenter randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Helicobacter pylori infection is linked to various gastrointestinal conditions, such as chronic active gastritis, peptic ulcers, and gastric cancer. Traditional treatment options encounter difficulties due to antibiotic resistance and adverse effects. Therefore, the aim of this study was to explore the effectiveness of a new treatment plan that combines vonoprazan (VPZ), amoxicillin, and bismuth for the eradication of H. pylori.

METHODS

A total of 600 patients infected with H. pylori were recruited for this multicenter randomized controlled trial. Patients treated for H. pylori elimination were randomly assigned at a 1:1 ratio to receive 14 days of vonoprazan-based triple therapy (vonoprazan + amoxicillin + bismuth, group A) or standard quadruple therapy (esomeprazole + clarithromycin + amoxicillin + bismuth, group B). Compliance and adverse effects were tracked through daily medication and side effect records. All patients underwent a 13C/14C-urea breath test 4 weeks after treatment completion.

RESULTS

Intention-to-treat (ITT) and per-protocol (PP) analyses revealed no substantial differences in H. pylori eradication rates between groups A and B (ITT: 83.7% vs 83.2%; PP: 90.9% vs 89.7%). However, significant differences were observed in the assessment of side effects (13.7% vs 28.6%, P < 0.001). Specifically, group A had significantly fewer "bitter mouths" than group B did (3.7% vs 16.2%, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Triple therapy comprising vonoprazan (20 mg), amoxicillin (750 mg), and bismuth potassium citrate (220 mg) achieved a PP eradication rate ≥90%, paralleling standard quadruple therapy, and had fewer adverse events and lower costs (¥306.8 vs ¥645.8) for treatment-naive patients.

Potential application of ChatGPT in Helicobacter pylori disease relevant queries

Background

Advances in artificial intelligence are gradually transforming various fields, but its applicability among ordinary people is unknown. This study aims to explore the ability of a large language model to address Helicobacter pylori related questions.

Methods

We created several prompts on the basis of guidelines and the clinical concerns of patients. The capacity of ChatGPT on Helicobacter pylori queries was evaluated by experts. Ordinary people assessed the applicability.

Results

The responses to each prompt in ChatGPT-4 were good in terms of response length and repeatability. There was good agreement in each dimension (Fleiss' kappa ranged from 0.302 to 0.690, p < 0.05). The accuracy, completeness, usefulness, comprehension and satisfaction scores of the experts were generally high. Rated usefulness and comprehension among ordinary people were significantly lower than expert, while medical students gave a relatively positive evaluation.

Conclusion

ChatGPT-4 performs well in resolving Helicobacter pylori related questions. Large language models may become an excellent tool for medical students in the future, but still requires further research and validation.

Network meta-analysis of treatment interventions for Helicobacter pylori infection in adult populations in East and Southeast Asia

Background

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection poses a global health challenge, necessitating diverse treatment strategies. This network meta-analysis aimed to assess various treatment regimens for H. pylori in East and Southeast Asian populations.

Methods

A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library databases from inception to 20 Dec 2023, to identify relevant randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on H. pylori treatment interventions in East Asian and Southeast Asian populations. The primary outcome focused on effectiveness, specifically the rate of H. pylori eradication, while the secondary outcome evaluated overall safety, including the incidence of total and serious adverse effects. Network geometry plots were generated to illustrate direct and indirect treatment comparisons, using triple therapy (TT) as the reference standard. Odds Ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using random-effects models to account for study heterogeneity and consistency models for indirect comparisons. The treatment hierarchy was assessed using the ranking probabilities and surface under the cumulative ranking curve (SUCRA) values.

Results

79 studies met the inclusion criteria, with 99 paired comparisons. The included studies, conducted in Southeast Asia and among East Asian populations, included 29,903 patients. Significant outcomes in treat effectiveness were observed in various comparisons, such as sequential therapy vs. TT, bismuth quadruple therapy (BQT) vs. TT, high-dose dual therapy (HDDT) vs. TT, concomitant therapy vs. TT, P-CAB-based therapy vs. TT, and R-HT/HT vs. TT. R-HT/HT was the top choice based on rankograms and SUCRA values (SUCRA = 96.5). Regarding overall safety, significant results were noted in comparisons involving BQT, HDDT, concomitant therapy, sequential therapy, and P-CAB-based therapy. HDDT achieved the highest overall safety based on rankograms and SUCRA values (SUCRA = 0.0). HDDT demonstrated the lowest incidence of serious adverse events, according to global rankograms and SUCRA values (SUCRA = 19.7).

Conclusion

This network meta-analysis highlights the complexity of treating H. pylori in East and Southeast Asia. R-HT/HT emerged as the most effective regimen, while HDDT proved to be the safest, with the lowest incidence of serious adverse events. These findings are crucial for optimizing treatment protocols in these regions.

Systematic Review Registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42023435318.

[The prevalence of mutations underlying development of Helicobacter pylori resistance to antibiotics in Kazan]

BACKGROUND

One of the reasons for the decrease of Helicobacter pylori eradication effectiveness is its resistance to antibiotics.

AIM

To examine the prevalence of H. pylori point mutations responsible for clarithromycin and levofloxacin resistance among the patients with upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract disorders in Kazan.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study included 203 patients with symptoms of dyspepsia who underwent upper GI endoscopy at the University Hospital of Kazan Federal University (Kazan, Russia) in 2019-2021. DNA isolation from gastric antrum mucosal biopsies was performed using PureLink Genomic DNA Mini Kits (Thermo Fisher Scientific, USA). Polymerase chain reaction was performed using primers specific for the V-region of the 23S gene and the A subunit DNA gyrase encoding gyrA gene region. The sequencing of obtained DNA fragments was performed on 3730 DNA Analyzer. The sequences were searched for point mutations responsible for H. pylori resistance to clarithromycin (A2143G, A2142G and A2142C193 mutations) and levofloxacin (mutations of the gyrA gene).

RESULTS

H. pylori was detected in 47.78% of biopsy specimens using polymerase chain reaction. The proportion of H. pylori strains with mutations leading to clarithromycin resistance was 17.53%. Amino acid substitutions in the gyrA gene were found in 12.37% of samples. In case of two H. pylori strains (2.06%), dual resistance to clarithromycin and levofloxacin was found.

CONCLUSION

So high incidence of mutations underlying the development of H. pylori resistance to clarithromycin and levofloxacin was observed among examined patients in Kazan.

Efficacy and safety of Vonoprazan-based treatment of Helicobacter pylori infection: a systematic review and network meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of the nine most widely studied Vonoprazan (VPZ)-based treatment regimens along with traditional Proton pump inhibitor (PPI)-based treatment regimens in eradicating Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection.

DESIGN

Through searching PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, we exclusively included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to investigate the efficacy of VPZ-based and PPI-based therapies for H. pylori infection. The included studies were evaluated for methodological quality using the Cochrane bias risk assessment tool, and the data analysis software was used to analyze the data accordingly.

RESULTS

The RCTs were collected from the earliest available date up to August 2023. Twenty-one RCTs were included, with a total sample size of 5481. The results of the network meta-analysis showed that the eradication rate of the VPZ-based quadruple 14-day (VPZ-Q14) treatment regimen in Intention-to-treat (ITT) analysis was the highest (SUCRA: 0.874); The eradication rate of the VPZ-based quadruple 10-day (VPZ-Q10) treatment plan in Per-protocol (PP) analysis was the highest (SUCRA: 0.849). All regimens were well tolerated without significant differences. According to the probability ranking of safety, high-dose VPZ-based dual 14-day therapy (H-VPZ-D14) ranked first in SUCRA, reaching 0.952. This indicates that H-VPZ-D14 treatment is the safest with a relatively low incidence of adverse effect. Therefore, VPZ-based therapies not only have a higher eradication rate, but also possess satisfactory safety.

CONCLUSION

Compared with traditional PPI-based therapies, VPZ-based therapies have shown superior eradication effects. Based on the Ranking Plot of the Network, the VPZ-Q14 or VPZ-Q10 treatment regimen for H. pylori has a higher eradication rate and acceptable differences compared to other treatment regimens. In addition, for regions with high antibiotic resistance rates, we recommend a 14-day quadruple therapy with bismuth based on VPZ.

National survey questionnaire on the diagnosis and treatment status of Helicobacter pylori in peptic ulcer bleeding disease

Background and objective

The Maastricht VI/Florence Consensus and Chinese National Consensus Report provide comprehensive guidelines for treating Helicobacter pylori infection. This study aimed to assess physicians' understanding of and adherence to this consensus in different hospitals.

Methods

Chinese medical staff attending gastrointestinal conferences across various regions were selected for this study. The questionnaire included: 1. the number of patients with peptic ulcer bleeding in hospitals of different levels annually and the diagnostic methods used for H. pylori; 2. whether routine H. pylori examination was conducted and the specific methods employed; and 3. Treatment plans for H. pylori eradication; 4. The mean follow-up duration after treatment 5. Plans for re-eradication in cases of H. pylori treatment failure.

Results

Across all levels of Chinese hospitals, the urea breath test was the most commonly used method for detecting H. pylori infection. Most primary (81.53%), secondary (89.49%), and tertiary (91.42%) centers opted for a 14-day quadruple regimen. The preferred antibiotic regimen at all hospital levels was amoxicillin+clarithromycin, with rates of 63.69, 58.08, and 59.27% in the primary, secondary, and tertiary hospitals, respectively. The rates of H. pylori re-examination were 68.15, 87.07, and 87.46% in the primary, secondary, and tertiary hospitals. If H. pylori eradication failed, hospitals at different levels choose to replace the initial plan.

Conclusion

There is a need for an enhanced understanding of and adherence to guidelines for H. pylori among physicians in hospitals at all levels.

Helicobacter pylori in oral cavity: current knowledge

The oral cavity may play a role as a reservoir and in the transmission and colonization of Helicobacter pylori. The route of transmission for H. pylori is not fully understood. The prevalence of this pathogen varies globally, affecting half of the world's population, predominantly in developing countries. Here, we review the prevalence of H. pylori in the oral cavity, the characteristics that facilitate its colonization and dynamics in the oral microbiome, the heterogeneity and diversity of virulence of among strains, and noninvasive techniques for H. pylori detection in oral samples. The prevalence of H. pylori in the oral cavity varies greatly, being influenced by the characteristics of the population, regions where samples are collected in the oral cavity, and variations in detection methods. Although there is no direct association between the presence of H. pylori in oral samples and stomach infection, positive cases for gastric H. pylori frequently exhibit a higher prevalence of the bacterium in the oral cavity, suggesting that the stomach may not be the sole reservoir of H. pylori. In the oral cavity, H. pylori can cause microbiome imbalance and remodeling of the oral ecosystem. Detection of H. pylori in the oral cavity by a noninvasive method may provide a more accessible diagnostic tool as well as help prevent transmission and gastric re-colonization. Further research into this bacterium in the oral cavity will offer insights into the treatment of H. pylori infection, potentially developing new clinical approaches.

Real-world efficacy of second-line therapies for Helicobacter pylori: a population-based study

BACKGROUND

With the increasing prevalence of antibiotic resistance, real-world data on the optimal empirical second-line therapy for Helicobacter pylori are still limited.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the real-world efficacy of various second-line therapies for H. pylori.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This was a retrospective population-based cohort study of all H. pylori-infected patients who had received the second-line treatment after the failure of primary clarithromycin triple therapy in Hong Kong between 2003 and 2018. The retreatment success rates of different second-line therapies were evaluated.

RESULTS

A total of 7591 patients who received second-line treatment were included. Notably, the most commonly prescribed regimen was still clarithromycin triple therapy, but the frequency of use had decreased from 59.5% in 2003-06 to 28.7% in 2015-18. Concomitant non-bismuth quadruple therapy had emerged as the commonest regimen (from 3.3% to 43.9%). In a validation analysis, the sensitivity and specificity of retreatment-inferred second-line treatment failure were 88.3% and 97.1%, respectively. The overall success rate of second-line therapies was 73.6%. Bismuth quadruple therapy had the highest success rate of 85.6%, while clarithromycin triple therapy had the lowest success rate of 63.5%. Specifically, bismuth/metronidazole/tetracycline quadruple, metronidazole/tetracycline triple, levofloxacin/metronidazole/tetracycline quadruple, rifabutin/amoxicillin triple and amoxicillin/levofloxacin triple therapies had relatively higher success rates over 80%. Age, treatment duration, baseline conditions and first-line treatment used were associated with success rate.

CONCLUSIONS

Bismuth quadruple therapy was the most effective second-line regimen for H. pylori in this real-world study. Despite a very low success rate, clarithromycin-containing triple therapies were still commonly used as second-line regimens.

Causal relationships of infection with Helicobacter pylori and herpesvirus on periodontitis: A Mendelian randomization study

Background

To explore the causal association between Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection, herpesvirus infection and periodontitis (PD) from a genetic perspective using Mendelian randomization (MR).

Methods

The PD data were derived from genome-wide association study (GWAS) from the Dental Endpoints (GLIDE) consortium, and the FinnGen Biobank provided data on H. pylori and herpesvirus infections. In addition, we examined GWAS data for subtypes of H. pylori and herpesvirus infection. Inverse variance weighting (IVW) was selected as a major analysis technique, and weighted median (WM), weighted model, simple model, and MR-Egger regression were added as supplementary methods. To verify the findings, the effects of pleiotropy and heterogeneity were assessed.

Results

Genetically predicted H. pylori infection (OR = 0.914, 95%CI = 0.693-1.205, P = 0.523), anti-H. pylori VacA (OR = 0.973, 95%CI = 0.895-1.057, P = 0.515), anti-H. pylori CagA (OR = 1.072, 95%CI = 0.986-1.164; P = 0.102), Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection (OR = 1.026, 95%CI = 0.940-1.120, P = 0.567), Herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection (OR = 0.962, 95%CI = 0.883-1.048, P = 0.372), cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection (OR = 1.025, 95%CI = 0.967-1.088, P = 0.415), EBV nuclear antigen-1 (EBNA1) (OR = 1.061, 95%CI = 0.930-1.209, P = 0.378), EBV virus capsid antigen (VCA) (OR = 1.043, 95CI% = 0.890-1.222, P = 0.603), HSV-1 (OR = 1.251, 95%CI = 0.782-2.001, P = 0.351), HSV-2 (OR = 1.020, 95%CI = 0.950-1.096, P = 0.585), CMV IgG (OR = 0.990, 95CI% = 0.882-1.111, P = 0.861) were not associated with PD, indicated that H. pylori and herpesvirus infection had no causal relationship to PD. Reverse studies also found no cause effect of PD on H. pylori or herpesvirus infection. The results of the sensitivity analysis suggested the robustness of the MR results.

Conclusion

This study offered preliminary proof that H. pylori and herpesvirus infections were not causally linked to PD, and vice versa. However, more robust instrumental variables (IVs) and larger samples of GWAS data were necessary for further MR analysis.

Global burden associated with 85 pathogens in 2019: a systematic analysis for the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019

BACKGROUND

Despite a global epidemiological transition towards increased burden of non-communicable diseases, communicable diseases continue to cause substantial morbidity and mortality worldwide. Understanding the burden of a wide range of infectious diseases, and its variation by geography and age, is pivotal to research priority setting and resource mobilisation globally.

METHODS

We estimated disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs) associated with 85 pathogens in 2019, globally, regionally, and for 204 countries and territories. The term pathogen included causative agents, pathogen groups, infectious conditions, and aggregate categories. We applied a novel methodological approach to account for underlying, immediate, and intermediate causes of death, which counted every death for which a pathogen had a role in the pathway to death. We refer to this measure as the burden associated with infection, which was estimated by combining different sources of information. To compare the burden among all pathogens, we used pathogen-specific ratios to incorporate the burden of immediate and intermediate causes of death for pathogens modelled previously by the GBD. We created the ratios by using multiple cause of death data, hospital discharge data, linkage data, and minimally invasive tissue sampling data to estimate the fraction of deaths coming from the pathway to death chain. We multiplied the pathogen-specific ratios by age-specific years of life lost (YLLs), calculated with GBD 2019 methods, and then added the adjusted YLLs to age-specific years lived with disability (YLDs) from GBD 2019 to produce adjusted DALYs to account for deaths in the chain. We used standard GBD methods to calculate 95% uncertainty intervals (UIs) for final estimates of DALYs by taking the 2·5th and 97·5th percentiles across 1000 posterior draws for each quantity of interest. We provided burden estimates pertaining to all ages and specifically to the under 5 years age group.

FINDINGS

Globally in 2019, an estimated 704 million (95% UI 610-820) DALYs were associated with 85 different pathogens, including 309 million (250-377; 43·9% of the burden) in children younger than 5 years. This burden accounted for 27·7% (and 65·5% in those younger than 5 years) of the previously reported total DALYs from all causes in 2019. Comparing super-regions, considerable differences were observed in the estimated pathogen-associated burdens in relation to DALYs from all causes, with the highest burden observed in sub-Saharan Africa (314 million [270-368] DALYs; 61·5% of total regional burden) and the lowest in the high-income super-region (31·8 million [25·4-40·1] DALYs; 9·8%). Three leading pathogens were responsible for more than 50 million DALYs each in 2019: tuberculosis (65·1 million [59·0-71·2]), malaria (53·6 million [27·0-91·3]), and HIV or AIDS (52·1 million [46·6-60·9]). Malaria was the leading pathogen for DALYs in children younger than 5 years (37·2 million [17·8-64·2]). We also observed substantial burden associated with previously less recognised pathogens, including Staphylococcus aureus and specific Gram-negative bacterial species (ie, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Acinetobacter baumannii, and Helicobacter pylori). Conversely, some pathogens had a burden that was smaller than anticipated.

INTERPRETATION

Our detailed breakdown of DALYs associated with a comprehensive list of pathogens on a global, regional, and country level has revealed the magnitude of the problem and helps to indicate where research funding mismatch might exist. Given the disproportionate impact of infection on low-income and middle-income countries, an essential next step is for countries and relevant stakeholders to address these gaps by making targeted investments.

FUNDING

Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Wellcome Trust, and Department of Health and Social Care using UK aid funding managed by the Fleming Fund.

Peptic ulcer disease

Annual prevalence estimates of peptic ulcer disease range between 0·12% and 1·5%. Peptic ulcer disease is usually attributable to Helicobacter pylori infection, intake of some medications (such as aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications), or being critically ill (stress-related), or it can be idiopathic. The clinical presentation is usually uncomplicated, with peptic ulcer disease management based on eradicating H pylori if present, the use of acid-suppressing medications-most often proton pump inhibitors (PPIs)-or addressing complications, such as with early endoscopy and high-dose PPIs for peptic ulcer bleeding. Special considerations apply to patients on antiplatelet and antithrombotic agents. H pylori treatment has evolved, with the choice of regimen dictated by local antibiotic resistance patterns. Indications for primary and secondary prophylaxis vary across societies; most suggest PPIs for patients at highest risk of developing a peptic ulcer, its complications, or its recurrence. Additional research areas include the use of potassium-competitive acid blockers and H pylori vaccination; the optimal approach for patients at risk of stress ulcer bleeding requires more robust determinations of optimal patient selection and treatment selection, if any. Appropriate continuation of PPI use outweighs most possible side-effects if given for approved indications, while de-prescribing should be trialled when a definitive indication is no longer present.

Mutations in Helicobacter pylori infected patients with chronic gastritis, intestinal type of gastric cancer and familial gastric cancer

BACKGROUND

Development of sequential changes of mucous leading to gastric cancer and familial cases of gastric cancer of intestinal type is widely connected with Helicobacter pylori infections. In this study we analysed variants of genes involved in cancerogenesis and inflammatory processes of intestines in patients infected with H.pylori. Our goal was to test whether mutations in these genes predestinate to development of gastric cancer, and whether there is a genetic factor that makes it more likely for infections with H.pylori to cause gastric cancer. As infections with H. pylori are relatively common, discovering such genetic predispositions could be used for establishing risk-groups and for planning treatments.

METHODS

Our studies cover analysis of variants in genes involved in cancerogenesis: TP53 (rs11540652, rs587782329, COSM10771), MSH2 (rs193922376), MLH1 (rs63750217), and inflammatory processes of intestine: NOD2 (rs2066847, rs2066842), IL1A (rs1800587) and IL1B (rs1143634) from H.pylori-infected patients.

RESULTS

Mutations were more common in the group of patients with gastric cancer of intestinal type and familial cases of gastric cancer in comparison with patients with chronic gastritis, chronic atrophic gastritis, intestinal metaplasia, dysplasia or gastric cancer (p-value = 0.00824), with the prevalence of p53 mutations in patients with familial gastric cancer vs. patients with other changes of mucosa (p-value = 0.000049). Additionally, gastric cancer patients have mainly genotype TT or CT of the rs2066842 variant of the NOD2 gene.

CONCLUSIONS

The lack of statistically significant changes of other interleukin genes involved in inflammatory processes may suggest the presence of H.pylori infection as a potential trigger for the development of the inflammatory process of the mucosa, leading through microbiota dysbiosis to the development of enteric gastric cancer. Mutations in analysed genes correlated with more severe mucosal changes, with a much more frequent presence of TP53 gene mutations, with a limited presence of other mutations in the familial history of gastric cancer.

Helicobacter pylori antibiotic resistance profile in Chinese children with upper gastrointestinal symptoms and a literature review for developing personalized eradicating strategies

Background: H. pylori (Helicobacter pylori) infections typically occur in early childhood. Although the prevalence of H. pylori in children is lower than that in adults, the eradication rate of this infection in children is relatively low because of resistance. In this study, we analyzed personalized treatment strategies to achieve treatment goals based on H. pylori resistance characteristics. This retrospective single-center study was conducted between January 2019 and December 2022 and enrolled 1,587 children who presented with upper gastrointestinal symptoms and underwent endoscopy. H. pylori culturing and antimicrobial susceptibility testing were performed. Results: Culture-positive results for H. pylori were obtained in 535 children. The resistance rates to clarithromycin (CLA), metronidazole (MET), and levofloxacin (LEV) were 39.8%, 78.1%, and 20.2%, respectively. None of the isolates were resistant to tetracycline (TET), amoxicillin (AMO), or furazolidone (FZD). Double resistance rates to CLA + MET, CLA + LEV, and MET + LEV were 19.1%, 3.0%, and 5.8%, respectively. Notably, triple-resistant to CLA + MET + LEV was 9.7%. Based on susceptibility tests, individualized triple therapy [proton pump inhibitor (PPI) +AMO + CLA/MET] was selected for 380 children with H. pylori sensitive to MET and/or CLA. In 155 children resistant to CLA and MET, bismuth-based quadruple therapy was recommended; for unable to receive bismuth, concomitant therapy was recommended for 14 children (<8 years of age); triple therapy with TET was recommended for 141 children (>8 years of age), with 43 children (>14 years of age) requiring FZD rather than TET. Conclusion: Resistance to H. pylori in Chinese children was relatively poor. Personalized therapy regimens should be based on susceptibility tests and avoided factors associated with treatment failure.

Helicobacter pylori eradication therapy for children

OBJECTIVES

The research aims to investigate the effect of vitamin D supplementation on the efficacy of Helicobacter pylori eradication therapy and to find new drug combinations for the eradication of the bacterium.

METHODS

A total of 128 children participated in the research. They were distributed under the following criteria: group A were children who tested positive for H. pylori and were treated with the standard so-called triple therapy including vitamin D; group B were children who tested positive for H. pylori and received the standard triple therapy without including vitamin D in the treatment; and group C were children who tested negative for H. pylori. After endoscopic examination, additional venous blood samples were taken from the children to determine vitamin D levels. A controlled study was carried out 45 days after the initial treatment.

RESULTS

The overall success rate of eradication therapy was 84.1 %. In group A, the success rate of treatment was 93.5 %, contrary to group B, where the success rate was 75 %. Although there was a difference in the percentage of H. pylori eradication therapy in the main group compared to the control group, there was no significant difference in group B. The success rate of eradication is p=0.082.

CONCLUSIONS

Following the research results, the addition of vitamin D to the standard triple therapy regimen for H. pylori had no effect. It can therefore be concluded that vitamin D does not significantly increase the efficacy of eradication therapy.

Structure-based design of small molecule inhibitors of the cagT4SS ATPase Cagα of Helicobacter pylori

We here describe the structure-based design of small molecule inhibitors of the type IV secretion system of Helicobacter pylori. The secretion system is encoded by the cag pathogenicity island, and we chose Cagα, a hexameric ATPase and member of the family of VirB11-like proteins, as target for inhibitor design. We first solved the crystal structure of Cagα in a complex with the previously identified small molecule inhibitor 1G2. The molecule binds at the interface between two Cagα subunits and mutagenesis of the binding site identified Cagα residues F39 and R73 as critical for 1G2 binding. Based on the inhibitor binding site we synthesized 98 small molecule derivates of 1G2 to improve binding of the inhibitor. We used the production of interleukin-8 of gastric cancer cells during H. pylori infection to screen the potency of inhibitors and we identified five molecules (1G2_1313, 1G2_1338, 1G2_2886, 1G2_2889, and 1G2_2902) that have similar or higher potency than 1G2. Differential scanning fluorimetry suggested that these five molecules bind Cagα, and enzyme assays demonstrated that some are more potent ATPase inhibitors than 1G2. Finally, scanning electron microscopy revealed that 1G2 and its derivatives inhibit the assembly of T4SS-determined extracellular pili suggesting a mechanism for their anti-virulence effect.

Prolongation of the gastric residence time of caffeine after administration in fed state: Comparison of effervescent granules with an extended release tablet

The aim of the present study was to investigate the gastroretentive capacity of different formulation principles. This was indirectly determined by the absorption behavior of caffeine from the dosage forms. A slow and continuous appearance of caffeine in the saliva of healthy volunteers was used as a parameter for a prolonged gastric retention time. For this purpose, a four-way study was conducted with twelve healthy volunteers using the following test procedures: (1) Effervescent granules with 240 mL of still water administered in fed state, (2) effervescent granules with 20 mL of still water in fed state, (3) extended release (ER) tablet with 240 mL of still water in fed state, and (4) effervescent granules with 240 mL of still water in fasted state. The initial rise of the caffeine concentrations was more pronounced after the intake of the effervescent granules in the fed state compared to that of the ER tablets. However, tmax tended to be shorter in the fed study arms following administration of the ER tablet compared to the granules. Overall, the application of active pharmaceutical ingredients formulated as effervescent granules seems to be a promising approach to increase their gastric residence time after intake in fed state.

Safety, pharmacokinetics, and efficacy of rifasutenizol, a novel dual-targeted antibacterial agent in healthy participants and patients in China with Helicobacter pylori infection: four randomised clinical trials

BACKGROUND

Due to the rapid development of antimicrobial resistance, the efficacy of most Helicobacter pylori eradication therapies have progressively decreased to an unacceptable level. Rifasutenizol (TNP-2198) is a new molecular entity with a synergistic dual mechanism of action currently under clinical development for the treatment of microaerophilic and anaerobic bacterial infections. We aimed to evaluate the safety, pharmacokinetics, and efficacy of rifasutenizol in healthy Chinese participants and patients with H pylori.

METHODS

We conducted four clinical trials of rifasutenizol capsules in healthy participants (aged 18-55 years) and patients with asymptomatic H pylori infection (aged 18-65 years) in a clinical trial centre in Jilin province, China. Trial 1 was a phase 1, double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled, single ascending dose study, in which participants were enrolled into one of seven rifasutenizol dose groups (50 mg, 100 mg, 200 mg, 400 mg, 600 mg, 800 mg, or 1000 mg) and were randomly assigned in a 4:1 ratio to study drug or placebo. Trial 2 was a phase 1, double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled, multiple ascending dose study, in which patients were enrolled into one of three rifasutenizol dose groups (200 mg, 400 mg, or 600 mg) and were randomly assigned in a 3:1 ratio to study drug or placebo. Trial 3 was a phase 2a, open-label, randomised, multiple-dose, dose-finding study in which patients enrolled into one of four cohorts were randomly assigned in a 1:1:1:1 ratio to a rifasutenizol dual or triple regimen. Trial 4 was a phase 2b, open-label, randomised, multiple-dose, regimen exploration study, in which patients enrolled into one of five cohorts were randomly assigned in a 2:2:1:1:2 ratio to a rifasutenizol dual therapy, triple therapy, or a control cohort. Block randomisation (block size 4 or 8) was used in all four trials. The key primary endpoints for trials 1, 2, and 3 were the tolerability, safety, and pharmacokinetics of rifasutenizol. For trial 4, the primary endpoint was the eradication rate of H pylori. These four trials were registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT06081699, NCT06081712, NCT06076681, and NCT06076694) and chinadrugtrials.org.cn (CTR20190734, CTR20192553, CTR20212050, and CTR20220625) and are completed.

FINDINGS

Between May 9, 2019, and Sept 14, 2022, 78 healthy participants (trial 1: n=10 per cohort in a 4:1 rifasutenizol:placebo ratio; and an additional eight for the food-effect cohort) and 168 patients with asymptomatic H pylori infection (trial 2: n=16 per cohort in a 3:1 rifasutenizol:placebo ratio; trial 3: n=10 per cohort; trial 4: n=10 or n=20 per cohort) were enrolled in the four clinical trials. Single doses of rifasutenizol (50-1000 mg) and multiple doses of rifasutenizol (200 mg to 600 mg, twice a day), either as monotherapy or co-administered with rabeprazole and amoxicillin, showed favourable safety and tolerability profiles. Most adverse events were mild, and no serious adverse events were reported. Rifasutenizol demonstrated a linear pharmacokinetic profile over the dose range of 50-800 mg, and there were no apparent pharmacokinetic interactions between rifasutenizol and the co-administrated drugs. Food intake slightly elevated the area under the plasma concentration-time curve (AUC) of rifasutenizol, and the geometric mean of AUC from time 0 to the last timepoint with a quantifiable concentration (AUC0-t) and AUC from time 0 to infinity (AUC0-∞) in the fed state were 1·334 and 1·396 times of those in the fasted state, respectively. There was mild accumulation after continuous administration of rifasutenizol, and the Rac(AUC) of rifasutenizol 400 mg in the dual and triple regiments in trial 3 were 1·37 and 1·49, respectively. In trial 3, the eradication rates of H pylori with 200 mg, 400 mg, or 600 mg of rifasutenizol in combination with rabeprazole, twice a day for 14 days, were 0% (95% CI 0-31), 30% (7-65), and 40% (12-74), respectively, identifying rifasutenizol 400 mg as the effective dose. In trial 4, H pylori eradication rates with the triple regimen in cohort A (400 mg rifasutenizol, 20 mg rabeprazole sodium, and 1 g amoxicillin) twice a day for 14 days was 95% (95% CI 74-100), and triple therapy (600 mg rifasutenizol, 20 mg rabeprazole sodium, and 1 g amoxicillin) three times a day for 7 days was 100% (69-100).

INTERPRETATION

Rifasutenizol monotherapy and combination therapy was generally safe and well tolerated in healthy participants and patients with H pylori infection. A triple regimen of 400 mg rifasutenizol capsules, 20 mg rabeprazole sodium enteric-coated tablets, and 1 g amoxicillin capsules twice a day for 14 days showed promising efficacy as a new treatment regimen for H pylori infection.

FUNDING

TenNor Therapeutics and National Natural Science Foundation of China.

TRANSLATION

For the Chinese translation of the abstract see Supplementary Materials section.

Intravenous Antibiotics in the Management of H. pylori Infection: A Systematic Review

Background: Helicobacter pylori is implicated in the development of gastritis, ulcers, and various gastric cancers, representing significant morbidity, mortality, and healthcare spending. Patients with H. pylori infection have traditionally been treated with oral antibiotics, however, oral therapy is not feasible in all clinical situations. We examined the available evidence supporting the use of intravenous (IV) antibiotics in H. pylori. Methods: This systematic review was carried out by reviewing multiple electronic databases: MEDLINE, CENTRAL, EMBASE, CINAHL, Clinicaltrials.org, and the World Health Organization (WHO) database of clinical trials. Articles published from database inception until February 12, 2023 that discussed the use of IV antibiotics in H. pylori management were included. Results: The search strategy identified 978 studies, with 11 meeting the inclusion criteria. The results demonstrate that there is a lack of robust trials examining the use of IV antibiotics in H. pylori management. Many trials demonstrated that IV antibiotics were safe and efficacious but the results are limited by inconsistencies in the year and geographic location trials were conducted, the IV and oral antibiotic regimens, and the duration of therapy. Conclusions: IV antibiotics appear to be a feasible therapeutic alternative in the management of H. pylori and can be considered, especially in patient populations where oral therapy is contraindicated.

Addressing Challenges in Standardizing Helicobacter pylori Treatment Protocols: Importance and Review

Helicobacter pylori, one of the top carcinogens, is associated with most cases of gastric cancer-related deaths worldwide. Over the past two decades, the rising rates of antibiotic resistance in the bacterium have reduced the efficacy of conventional antibiotic-based treatments. This underscores the urgency for continued research and novel treatment approaches. Establishing a worldwide accepted physician guideline for antibiotic prescription is crucial to combat antibiotic resistance and improve H. pylori infection management. Therefore, it is important to address the challenges that complicate the establishment of a universally accepted treatment protocol to prescribe an antibiotic regimen to eradicate H. pylori. The answers to the questions of why conventional standard triple therapy remains a first-line treatment choice despite its low efficacy, and how different factors affect therapy choice, are needed to identify these challenges. Hence, this review addresses concerns related to H. pylori treatment choice, role of antibiotic resistance and patient compliance in treatment outcomes, first-line vs. second-line therapy options, and methods for enhancing existing treatment methods. We also present a chart to aid antibiotic treatment prescription, which may support physician guidelines in this aspect. Eradication of H. pylori and patient adherence is paramount in overcoming antibiotic resistance in the bacterium, and our chart summarizes key considerations and suggests novel approaches to achieve this goal.

Helicobacter pylori Diagnosis and Treatment in Africa: The First Lagos Consensus Statement of the African Helicobacter and Microbiota Study Group

BACKGROUND

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection is the most prevalent type of bacterial infection. Current guidelines from different regions of the world neglect specific African conditions and requirements. The African Helicobacter and Microbiota Study Group (AHMSG), founded in 2022, aimed to create an Africa-specific consensus report reflecting Africa-specific issues.

SUMMARY

Eighteen experts from nine African countries and two European delegates supported by nine African collaborators from eight other countries prepared statements on the most important African issues in four working groups: (1) epidemiology, (2) diagnosis, (3) indications and prevention, and (4) treatment. Limited resources, restricted access to medical systems, and underdeveloped diagnostic facilities differ from those of other regions. The results of the individual working groups were presented for the final consensus voting, which included all board members.

KEY MESSAGES

There is a need for further studies on H. pylori prevalence in Africa, with diagnosis hinged on specific African situation. Treatment of H. pylori in the African setting should be based on accessibility and reimbursement, while indication and prevention should be defined in specific African countries.

Anti-Helicobacter pylori Treatment in Patients With Gastric Cancer After Radical Gastrectomy

Importance

Whether anti-Helicobacter pylori treatment can provide survival benefits for patients with gastric cancer who are diagnosed with H pylori infection is an area with limited research.

Objective

To explore the potential survival benefits of anti-H pylori treatment after radical gastrectomy in patients with gastric cancer and presurgical confirmation of H pylori infection.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This retrospective cohort study was conducted using data from patients with gastric cancer treated between January 1, 2010, and December 31, 2018, and followed up for outcome ascertainment until May 19, 2021. Propensity score matching was performed in patients treated with or without anti-H pylori treatment. This study involved a single institute in a comprehensive cancer treatment and research center located in Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China. The study included patients with gastric or esophagogastric junction adenocarcinoma who underwent curative gastrectomy with D2 lymphadenectomy and tested positive for H pylori infection. Data were analyzed from March to June 2023.

Exposure

Anti-H pylori treatment, which primarily includes triple therapy regimens consisting of amoxicillin, clarithromycin, and omeprazole for 14 days.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Clinical outcomes, including overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS), were analyzed by Kaplan-Meier method, log-rank test, and Cox proportional hazards regression model. Subgroup analysis based on crucial clinical information was also conducted.

Results

All 1293 patients (median [IQR] age, 59 [50-65] years; 860 [66.5%] male) were divided into 2 groups, with 125 patients in the anti-H pylori treatment group and 1168 patients in the non-anti-H pylori treatment group based on whether they received anti-H pylori treatment during the perioperative period and the follow-up. Survival analysis showed that the 5-year OS rates were 94.1% (95% CI, 89.3%-99.2%) in the anti-H pylori group and 73.8% (95% CI, 70.7%-77.0%) in the non-anti-H pylori group, and the hazard ratio (HR) of these 2 groups was 0.33 (95% CI, 0.18-0.60; P < .001). The survival benefit remained after propensity score matching (HR, 0.50; 95% CI, 0.26-0.99; P = .048). Multivariable analysis for OS and DFS further showed the survival benefit of anti-H pylori treatment, with HRs of 0.38 (95% CI, 0.17-0.87; P = .02) and 0.48 (95% CI, 0.28-0.83; P = .008), respectively. Among patients with TNM stage II/III disease who received adjuvant chemotherapy, anti-H pylori treatment was associated with survival benefits (OS: HR, 0.49; 95% CI, 0.24-0.99; P = .046), whereas among those who did not receive adjuvant chemotherapy, anti-H pylori treatment was not associated with survival benefits (OS: HR, 0.29; 95% CI, 0.04-2.08; P = .22).

Conclusions and Relevance

This cohort study indicates that anti-H pylori treatment may be associated with improved survival in patients with gastric cancer who have H pylori infections. The study reinforces the importance of including H pylori screening and treatment in the surgical treatment of these patients.

Application of cefuroxime in the eradication therapy of Helicobacter pylori infection: A review article

BACKGROUND

Helicobacter pylori infection and its associated diseases represent a significant global health concern. Patients who cannot use amoxicillin pose a therapeutic challenge and necessitate alternative medications. Preliminary research indicates that cefuroxime demonstrates promising potential for eradicating H. pylori infection, and there is a lack of comprehensive review articles on the use of cefuroxime.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This study conducts a thorough systematic literature review and synthesis. A comprehensive systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, China Biology Medicine disc, and Wanfang Data up to January 13, 2024. The search strategy utilized the following keywords: (Cefuroxime) AND (Helicobacter pylori OR Helicobacter nemestrinae OR Campylobacter pylori OR Campylobacter pylori subsp. pylori OR Campylobacter pyloridis OR H. pylori OR Hp) for both English and Chinese language publications. Sixteen studies from five different countries or regions were included in final literature review.

RESULTS

Analysis results indicate that H. pylori is sensitive to cefuroxime, with resistance rates similar to amoxicillin being relatively low. Regimens containing cefuroxime have shown favorable eradication rates, which were comparable to those of the regimens containing amoxicillin. Regarding safety, the incidence of adverse reactions in cefuroxime-containing eradication regimens was comparable to that of amoxicillin-containing regimens or other bismuth quadruple regimens, with no significant increase in allergic reactions in penicillin-allergic patients. Regarding compliance, studies consistently report high compliance rates for regimens containing cefuroxime.

CONCLUSION

Cefuroxime can serve as an alternative to amoxicillin for the patients allergic to penicillin with satisfactory efficacies, safety, and compliance.

Prevalence and associated risk factors of Helicobacter pylori infection in East Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Helicobacter pylori is the main cause of chronic gastritis, peptic ulcer, lymphoma, and gastric cancer in humans. The prevalence and factors associated with H. pylori infection are varied across countries. Thus, a comprehensive review has not been done on prevalence and associated factors in East Africa. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to estimate the pooled prevalence and identify factors associated with H. pylori infection in East Africa.

METHODS

Articles written in English language were retrieved from PubMed, Scopus, and Science Direct. Relevant articles were selected and screened using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines. Publication bias was assessed qualitatively and qualitatively using funnel plot symmetry and Egger's test, respectively. Heterogeneity was assessed using the I2 measure. Data were analyzed using Stata software, version 14, and the "metan" command.

RESULTS

A total of 231 articles were retrieved from nineteen countries in East Africa. Of these, 70 articles were eligible for the review. The pooled prevalence of H. pylori in East Africa was 50.98% (95% CI: 45.05-56.90). The prevalence of H. pylori infection ranged from 7.7 to 94.5% in East African countries. The highest pooled prevalence was from Sudan (61.3%, 95% CI: 52.6-69.9), and the lowest prevalence was reported from Uganda (40.7%, 95% CI: 33-48.3). Persons with no formal education (OR: 2.03; 95% CI: 1.22-2.83), lack of hand washing habit after toilet (OR: 2.24; 95% CI: 1.45-3.02), having a history of dyspepsia (OR: 2.25; 95% CI: 1.31-3.18), living in rural areas (OR = 1.80; 95% CI: 0.38-3.23), and having unclean water source (OR = 1.5; 95% CI:0.45-3.45) were all associated with higher risk for H. pylori infection.

CONCLUSION

More than half of the populations of East African countries were positive for H. pylori infection. Rural residence, source of water, and alcohol consumption were significantly associated with H. pylori infection. Therefore, healthcare workers could provide health education on the aforementioned risk factors, and the government and other stakeholders could improve the source of drinking water in East Africa.

Prevalence of Histological Gastritis in a Community Population and Association with Epigastric Pain

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Gastritis is a common histological diagnosis, although the prevalence is decreasing in developed populations, alongside decreasing prevalence of H. pylori infection. We sought to determine the prevalence of the etiology of gastritis in a Swedish population sample and to analyze any associations with symptoms, an area of clinical uncertainty.

METHODS

Longitudinal population-based study based in Östhammar, Sweden. A randomly sampled adult population completed a validated gastrointestinal symptom questionnaire (Abdominal Symptom Questionnaire, ASQ) in 2011 (N = 1175). Participants < 80 years of age and who were eligible were invited to undergo esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) (N = 947); 402 accepted and 368 underwent EGD with antral and body biopsies (average 54.1 years, range 20-79 years; 47.8% male) with H. pylori serology.

RESULTS

Gastritis was found in 40.2% (148/368; 95% CI 35.2-45.2%). By rank, the most common histological subtype was reactive (68/148; 45.9%), then H. pylori (44/148; 29.7%), chronic non-H. pylori (29/148; 19.6%), and autoimmune (4/148; 2.7%). Gastritis was significantly associated with older age and H. pylori status (p < 0.01). Gastritis subjects were divided into three histological categories: chronic inactive inflammation, autoimmune gastritis, and active inflammation; there was no difference in the presence of upper gastrointestinal symptoms when categories were compared to cases with no pathological changes. Functional dyspepsia or gastroesophageal reflux were reported in 25.7% (38/148) of those with gastritis (any type or location) versus 34.1% (75/220) with no pathological changes (p = 0.32). Epigastric pain was more common in chronic H. pylori negative gastritis in the gastric body (OR = 3.22, 95% CI 1.08-9.62).

CONCLUSION

Gastritis is common in the population with a prevalence of 40% and is usually asymptomatic. Chronic body gastritis may be associated with epigastric pain, but independent validation is required to confirm these findings. Clinicians should not generally ascribe symptoms to histological gastritis.

Trends in gastric cancer incidence and mortality in Asia and association analysis with human development index, 1990-2019

OBJECTIVES

To describe the epidemiological time trends and gender, age and regional differences of gastric cancer in Asia during 1990-2019, and to analyze the association between the human development index (HDI) and the statistical indicators of the burden of disease.

METHODS

Describing trends in age-standardized incidence rates (ASIR) and age-standardized mortality rate (ASMR) in Asia from 1990 to 2019 based on GBD-reported population-based surveillance of gastric cancer in Asia. Obtained ASIR, ASMR, and mortality to incidence ratios (MIR) for gastric cancer in different countries in 2019, with association analysis by Kruskal-Wallis nonparametric test.

RESULTS

The annual percentage change in ASIR and ASMR in Asia from 1990 to 2019 was - 1.20% and - 1.91%. Male gastric cancer patients have higher ASIR and ASMR than female gastric cancer patients. Decreasing trends in ASIR and ASMR for the total population in five Asian regions. From 1990 to 2019, the average annual change in ASMR was - 2.45%, - 1.43%, - 0.53%, - 0.62%, and - 0.27% for Central Asia, East Asia, high-income Asia-Pacific, South Asia, and Southeast Asia, respectively (p < 0.05). Both incidence and mortality were concentrated in the age groups of 85-89 and 89-94 years. Classifying Asian countries into different levels of HDI, only MIR was associated with HDI levels.

CONCLUSION

ASIR and ASMR of gastric cancer in the total population, different regions, and countries in Asia from 1990 to 2019 showed an overall decreasing trend. The MIR index is suggestive of survival rates and the role of cancer care in individual countries. Asian countries should develop different strategies for gastric cancer screening and prevention according to high-risk age, high-risk gender and HDI.

The impact of Helicobacter pylori infection on low skeletal muscle mass risk in Chinese women over 40: a cross-sectional analysis

Background

Sarcopenia can lead to significant personal, social, and economic burdens. The diagnosis of sarcopenia heavily relies on the identification of Low Skeletal Muscle Mass (LSMM), which is an independent predictor of frailty, disability, and increased risk of death among seniors. Women have physiologically lower levels of skeletal muscle mass than men, and female sarcopenia appears to be more influenced by menopause. They also tend to have higher body fat levels than man, which increases the risk of sarcopenia obesity. On another front, it's also recognized that humans are largely prone to Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection, with global prevalence rates often surpassing 50%. Nevertheless, the interconnection between H. pylori infection and LSMM remains relatively unexplored. Hence, our study specifically targeted women as the research population and sought to explore several risk factors for LSMM. Additionally, we delved into the potential correlation between LSMM and H. pylori infection in women, hoping to gain insights into potential preventative measures or treatment options that may enhance the quality of life for women affected by sarcopenia.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional study among women aged over 18 years undergoing physical examination. We performed 13C-urea breath test (UBT) for diagnosis of H. pylori infection and Bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) for the assessment of LSMM. Logistic regression models were used to analyze the associations of H. pylori infection with LSMM.

Results

This study enrolled 1984 Chinese women who were undergoing health check-ups. A univariate logistic regression analysis did not reveal a direct correlation between H. pylori infection and LSMM among this female population (OR=1.149, 95% CI 0.904-1.459, p=0.257). Yet, upon dividing the participants into age-based subgroups, an evident link was observed between H. pylori infection and LSMM in women aged 40 or above (OR=1.381, 95%CI 1.032-1.848, p= 0.030). After adjusting for variables including Age, BMI, TP, ALK, Cre, this relationship remained statistically relevant (OR=1.514, 95%CI 1.085-2.113, p= 0.015).

Conclusions

Women who are over 40 years old and currently infected with H. pylori have an increased risk of developing LSMM. Therefore, timely treatment for H. pylori eradication is recommended for this group of women to reduce the occurrence of LSMM.

Vonoprazan-amoxicillin dual therapy versus bismuth-containing quadruple therapy for Helicobacter pylori eradication: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Recently, vonoprazan-amoxicillin (VA) dual therapy has been reported as a promising approach for Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) eradication. However, the effects of VA therapy versus bismuth-containing quadruple therapy (BQT) on H. pylori eradication remains unclear. The objective of this meta-analysis was to compare the effects of VA dual therapy with BQT for H. pylori eradication.

METHODS

A comprehensive search of the literature was conducted from the beginning to September 2023, utilizing PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Library and Web of Science database. A random-effects model was used to perform a meta-analysis to determine the pooled relative risk (RR) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Moreover, trial sequential analysis (TSA) was conducted to evaluate the conclusiveness of the H. pylori eradication rate.

RESULTS

Six randomized controlled trials (RCTs) with 1233 patients were included. The VA therapy has similar eradication rate (ITT analysis: 87% vs. 85.7%, RR = 1.01, 95% CI: 0.93-1.09, p = 0.84; PP analysis: 92.5% vs. 93.2%, RR = 1.00, 95% CI: 0.94-1.06, p = 0.97) and compliance (RR = 1.01, 95% CI: 0.99-1.03, p = 0.32) compared to BQT. The VA therapy group had a significantly lower incidence of total adverse events than the BQT group (16.3% vs. 40.0%, RR = 0.45, 95% CI: 0.37-0.55, p < 0.00001). The TSA result showed that the effect was conclusive.

CONCLUSIONS

Current evidence indicated that VA therapy is just as successful as BQT in eliminating H. pylori, yet it has fewer adverse events and similar compliance.