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Helicobacter pylori infection and recurrent abdominal pain in children

B K Das1, Simple Kakkar, V K Dixit

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India.

Journal of Tropical Pediatrics
|August 22, 2003
PubMed

Insights

Helicobacter pylori infection is linked to recurrent abdominal pain in children. Eradicating H. pylori significantly relieved symptoms in most children studied.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Gastroenterology
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Recurrent abdominal pain (RAP) is a common pediatric issue.
  • The role of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection in pediatric RAP requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the association between H. pylori infection and RAP in children.
  • To evaluate the efficacy of H. pylori eradication therapy in resolving symptoms.

Main Methods:

  • Sixty-five children (3-12 years) with unexplained RAP underwent upper endoscopy and antral biopsy.
  • Biopsies were tested for H. pylori using rapid urease test, histology, and culture.
  • Patients received H. pylori eradication treatment for 10 days.

Main Results:

  • H. pylori was detected in 77% of children with RAP.
  • Histopathological examination revealed antral inflammation in 69% of cases.
  • Complete symptom relief was observed in 83% of patients after eradication therapy.

Conclusions:

  • A significant association exists between H. pylori infection and recurrent abdominal pain in children.
  • H. pylori eradication should be considered for children suffering from unexplained RAP.

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