Campylobacter pylori: a newly recognized infectious agent in the gastrointestinal tract

J H Yardley1, G Paull

  • 1Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland.

Insights

Campylobacter pylori, a spiral bacterium, is linked to chronic active gastritis and nearly all duodenal ulcers. Further research is needed to confirm its role in upper gastrointestinal disorders.

Area of Science:

  • Gastroenterology
  • Microbiology
  • Pathology

Background:

  • Campylobacter pylori is a spiral, gram-negative, urease-producing bacillus infecting the stomach.
  • This organism is frequently found overlying the gastric epithelium.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review recent experience with Campylobacter pylori, focusing on its pathologic aspects.
  • To discuss the organism's association with gastritis and duodenal ulcers.

Main Methods:

  • Review of pathological and clinical observations.
  • Microscopic examination of gastric biopsies using various staining techniques (silver stains, Giemsa, acridine orange, hematoxylin-eosin).

Main Results:

  • Campylobacter pylori is frequently found in patients with chronic active gastritis worldwide.
  • Infection rates approach 100% in duodenal ulcer patients, suggesting a role in pathogenesis or treatment response.
  • The organism may cause acute infectious gastritis associated with hypochlorhydria.

Conclusions:

  • Accumulating evidence suggests Campylobacter pylori plays a significant role in upper gastrointestinal disorders.
  • Further extensive investigation is required to fully establish its pathogenic role.

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