Campylobacter-like organisms in gastric biopsies: a Christchurch study

Following a 20 patient pilot investigation for Campylobacter pyloridis in selected gastric biopsy specimens, 56 consecutive patients subjected to routine gastroscopies were further examined. 14/56 had positive gram stains for spiral gram negative bacilli in gastric biopsy imprints and 4/14 had positive culture for this organism. All 14 positive specimens showed histological gastritis of varying degrees (grade 3 inflammation). The methodology, significance and implications of these findings are discussed in this first New Zealand report of C pyloridis in the stomach.