Clinical significance of Helicobacter species other than Helicobacter pylori

The cultivation of Helicobacter pylori and the recognition of its clinical significance have served to stimulate interest in bacteria associated with the gastrointestinal and hepatobiliary tracts. Many novel Helicobacter species have been identified and are increasingly recognized in association with human disease, most of which is likely acquired as a zoonosis. Because their identification can be difficult by use of routine methods available in the clinical laboratory, awareness of methods for diagnosis and treatment of these Helicobacter species is important, particularly in the evaluation of immunocompromised patients.