Campylobacter pylori infection in children

E J Eastham1, T S Elliott, D Berkeley

  • 1Department of Child Health, University of Newcastle upon Tyne, U.K.

The Journal of Infection
|January 1, 1988
PubMed

Insights

Two children with Campylobacter pylori (C. pylori) infection experienced symptom resolution after treatment. Eradication of C. pylori was confirmed, supporting its role in pediatric gastritis.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Gastroenterology
  • Microbiology
  • H. pylori Research

Background:

  • Antral nodular hyperplasia and active chronic gastritis are conditions observed in children.
  • The role of Campylobacter pylori (now Helicobacter pylori) in pediatric gastrointestinal issues requires further investigation.

Observation:

  • Two pediatric cases of antral nodular hyperplasia and gastritis associated with C. pylori are presented.
  • The organism was visualized using scanning electron microscopy and successfully cultured from antral biopsies.
  • Elevated anti-C. pylori IgG titers were detected in both patients, with one also showing serum IgM.

Findings:

  • Treatment with ampicillin and a bismuth preparation led to complete symptom resolution in both children.
  • Confirmation of organism eradication was achieved through repeated endoscopy, biopsy, and negative cultures.
  • Absence of acute inflammatory changes post-treatment further supported successful eradication.

Implications:

  • The findings suggest a causative link between C. pylori and antral lymphoid hyperplasia and gastritis in pediatric patients.
  • Successful treatment outcomes highlight the efficacy of antibiotic and bismuth therapy for C. pylori eradication in children.
  • This study underscores the importance of diagnosing and treating C. pylori in pediatric cases presenting with specific gastric pathologies.

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