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Childhood headache and H. pylori--a possible association

Lucy Bradbeer1, Swetha Thakkar, Anthony Liu

  • 1Discipline of Paediatrics, Sydney Medical School - Nepean, University of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. l.bradbeer@gmail.com

Australian Family Physician
|March 27, 2013
PubMed

Insights

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection in a child was linked to recurrent headaches. Eradicating the H. pylori infection led to rapid symptom resolution, suggesting a potential connection.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Neurology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Gastroenterology

Background:

  • Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection is prevalent, affecting approximately 40% of individuals in developed countries.
  • Many H. pylori infections remain asymptomatic, complicating prevalence assessments.
  • Recurrent headaches, particularly migraines, are a common pediatric concern.

Observation:

  • A case study involved a 7-year-old child experiencing recurrent headaches and gastrointestinal issues.
  • The child was diagnosed with H. pylori infection.
  • Literature suggests a potential association between H. pylori infection and migraine.

Findings:

  • Eradication of H. pylori infection in the pediatric patient was followed by rapid resolution of both headaches and gastrointestinal symptoms.
  • The case suggests a possible link between H. pylori infection and the child's recurrent headaches.

Implications:

  • This case highlights a potential, though unconfirmed, association between H. pylori and pediatric migraines.
  • Further research is needed to validate these findings and establish clinical guidelines.
  • Consideration of H. pylori testing (e.g., using a (13)C-urea breath test) and triple therapy may be warranted for children with recurrent headaches.
Abstract

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