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Potential role of enterohepatic Helicobacter species as a facilitating factor in the development of Chlamydia

Tomislav Meštrović1, Sunčanica Ljubin-Sternak, Mario Sviben

  • 1Polyclinic for Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Dr. Zora Profozić, Bosutska 19, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia. tomislav.mestrovic@gmail.com

Medical Hypotheses
|July 13, 2013
PubMed

Insights

Helicobacter species may act as cofactors in Chlamydia trachomatis proctitis, particularly in men who have sex with men (MSM). Their presence in the rectum could facilitate initial infection and disease progression.

Area of Science:

  • Gastroenterology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Microbiology

Background:

  • Gastrointestinal chlamydial infections, including proctitis, are common but often overlooked.
  • Proctitis is particularly prevalent in men who have sex with men (MSM).
  • Enterohepatic Helicobacter species (e.g., H. cinaedi, H. fennelliae) are also linked to proctitis.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the potential role of Helicobacter species as cofactors in the development of Chlamydia trachomatis proctitis.
  • To explore how Helicobacter species might influence the initial infection and progression of chlamydial proctitis.

Main Methods:

  • This study proposes a hypothesis based on existing knowledge of Helicobacter immune evasion mechanisms.
  • The proposed mechanism involves Helicobacter's interaction with innate immunity and intestinal homeostasis.

Main Results:

  • Helicobacter species possess mechanisms for immune evasion and suppression.
  • These bacteria can impact intestinal homeostasis.

Conclusions:

  • Helicobacter species in the rectum may facilitate Chlamydia trachomatis infection.
  • Helicobacter could act as a cofactor in the pathogenesis of chlamydial proctitis, influencing disease initiation and advancement.

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