Relation of helicobacter pylori infection and multiple sclerosis in Iranian patients
Nafiseh Mohebi1, Mansoureh Mamarabadi, Mehdi Moghaddasi
1Department of Neurology, Rasool-e-Akram Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences , Tehran, Iran.
Abstract:
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is the most prevalent central nervous system demyelinating disease. There are known risk factors for MS. However, there is uncertainty in its protective factors. Few studies have demonstrated that some chronic infections may have protective effects on this disease. We carried this study to investigate the relation between Helicobacter pylori (HP) infection and the prevalence and severity of MS. In this case-control study, 163 MS patients and 150 sex- and age- matched controls were included. Blood samples for IgG and IgM anti HP antibodies were collected from all individuals. Also, the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) was used to evaluate the MS patients. Suitable statistical analysis was applied. A Significant difference was observed in seropositivity between these two groups (P<0.001) but no significant difference was seen in seropositivity between conventional and opticospinal MS (P=0.522). No significant difference was observed in seropositivity among ages (P=0.075) and between genders (P=0.204). A significant difference was seen in EDSS value between seropositive and seronegative patients (P=0.017). We concluded that patients with HP infection had lower incidence of multiple sclerosis and MS patients with HP infection showed lower neurologic complications, which can demonstrate that HP infection may have a protective influence on MS pathogenesis.
Insights
Helicobacter pylori (HP) infection may protect against multiple sclerosis (MS). HP infection was linked to lower MS incidence and reduced neurological complications in patients, suggesting a protective role.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Immunology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a leading cause of neurological disability.
- While MS risk factors are known, protective factors remain unclear.
- Chronic infections are being investigated for potential protective effects against MS.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between Helicobacter pylori (HP) infection and the prevalence and severity of MS.
- To determine if HP infection influences MS incidence or patient disability.
Main Methods:
- A case-control study involving 163 MS patients and 150 controls.
- Assessed IgG and IgM anti-HP antibodies in blood samples.
- Utilized the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) to evaluate MS patient severity.
Main Results:
- Significantly lower HP seropositivity was observed in MS patients compared to controls (P<0.001).
- No significant difference in HP seropositivity was found between MS subtypes, ages, or genders.
- MS patients with HP infection exhibited significantly lower EDSS scores (P=0.017).
Conclusions:
- HP infection is associated with a reduced incidence of MS.
- HP infection in MS patients correlates with decreased neurological complications.
- HP infection may exert a protective influence on MS pathogenesis.
Related Concept Videos
01:26Gastritis II: Pathophysiology
01:27Peptic Ulcer
01:16Treating Helicobacter pylori in Peptic Ulcers: Antimicrobial Therapy
01:28Peptic Ulcer Disease III: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies
Few clinical manifestations differentiate gastric ulcers from duodenal ulcers. Distinctions in the location, timing, and pain relief are crucial for healthcare providers in differentiating between gastric and duodenal ulcers during clinical assessments.
01:24Peptic Ulcer Disease II: Pathophysiology
01:28Peptic Ulcer Disease II: Pathophysiology
Damaging agents such as Helicobacter pylori, gastric acid, pepsin, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can weaken the mucosal defense, allowing hydrogen ions to infiltrate back and harm epithelial cells.