Helicobacter pylori in oral cavity: current knowledge

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Gastroenterology
• Oral Health

Background:

• Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a widespread pathogen affecting half the global population, with transmission routes not fully elucidated.
• The oral cavity is increasingly recognized as a potential reservoir for H. pylori, influencing its colonization and transmission dynamics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the prevalence and characteristics of H. pylori in the oral cavity.
• To explore H. pylori's colonization dynamics within the oral microbiome and strain virulence.
• To assess noninvasive detection methods for oral H. pylori and their clinical implications.

Main Methods:

• Literature review synthesizing existing research on H. pylori in oral samples.
• Analysis of factors influencing oral H. pylori prevalence, including population characteristics and detection techniques.
• Examination of H. pylori's impact on the oral microbiome and ecosystem.

Main Results:

• Oral H. pylori prevalence varies significantly, influenced by demographics, sample site, and detection methods.
• While not directly linked to stomach infection, oral H. pylori is more common in individuals with gastric H. pylori, suggesting the oral cavity as a potential reservoir.
• H. pylori can disrupt the oral microbiome, leading to ecosystem imbalance.

Conclusions:

• The oral cavity plays a role in H. pylori colonization and transmission, potentially serving as a reservoir.
• Noninvasive oral detection of H. pylori could enhance diagnostics, aid in preventing transmission, and reduce gastric re-colonization.
• Further research on oral H. pylori is crucial for developing novel treatment strategies for H. pylori infections.