Related Experiment Videos
Demonstration of Helicobacter pylori in tracheal secretions
1Phoenix General Hospital, Ariz.
Abstract:
A new gram-negative bacterium, Helicobacter pylori, has been found in gastric secretions. In view of an almost 9% incidence of unidentified gram-negative bacteria in aspiration pneumonia, the authors set out to prove that H pylori could be found in tracheal secretions. Eighteen sequential patients admitted to the intensive care unit who had endotracheal or nasogastric intubation for 24 hours or longer were studied. Of 20 sets of specimens from 18 patients. Helicobacter was recovered from 2(10%) of the endotracheal specimens. The authors conclude that H pylori can gain access to the endobronchial tree and therefore may contribute to the origin of pneumonia due to unidentified gram-negative bacteria.
Insights
Helicobacter pylori, a gram-negative bacterium, was found in tracheal secretions of intensive care unit patients. This suggests H. pylori may contribute to gram-negative pneumonia in intubated individuals.
Area of Science:
- Medical Microbiology
- Pulmonary Medicine
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Helicobacter pylori is a gram-negative bacterium primarily associated with gastric infections.
- A significant incidence of unidentified gram-negative bacteria is observed in aspiration pneumonia.
- The potential role of H. pylori in respiratory infections remains largely unexplored.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence of Helicobacter pylori in tracheal secretions of intensive care unit (ICU) patients.
- To determine if H. pylori can colonize the endobronchial tree.
Main Methods:
- Study included 18 sequential ICU patients with endotracheal or nasogastric intubation for ≥24 hours.
- Tracheal specimens were collected and analyzed for the presence of Helicobacter.
- Bacterial cultures were performed on 20 sets of specimens from the 18 patients.
Main Results:
- Helicobacter was successfully recovered from 2 (10%) of the endotracheal specimens.
- This indicates H. pylori can be present in the lower respiratory tract.
Conclusions:
- Helicobacter pylori can access the endobronchial tree.
- H. pylori may be a contributing factor to pneumonia caused by unidentified gram-negative bacteria in critically ill patients.