Helicobacter pylori: diagnostics and management in peptic ulcer disease: a review

The management of peptic ulcer disease (PUD) has progressed markedly over the past century. Thanks to the discovery of Helicobacter pylori, our treatment focus has shifted from antacids and H2 antagonists to proton pump inhibitors and antimicrobial agents. Despite these advances, many treatment issues remain ambiguous. Some of the most controversial issues include management of the infection at a general practice level, particularly whom to treat, which regimens are most effective, and which diagnostic criteria (if any) should be used. This article will provide a brief description of available diagnostic modalities and summarize recent research findings on optimal testing techniques and treatment in primary care.