Recent advances in peptic ulcer disease: Helicobacter pylori infection and its treatment

The identification of the gastric bacterium Helicobacter pylori was a significant advancement in the treatment of peptic ulcer disease. H. pylori infects the gastric mucosa and its eradication is associated with the prevention of ulcer recurrence. The significance of this finding is that bacterial infections can be treated and cured, offering hope to individuals with peptic ulcers. Characteristics of H. pylori and its putative role in ulcer formation are discussed. The recent challenge has been to identify a drug regimen that will effectively eradicate this organism inexpensively and conveniently, while not causing significant side effects. Current diagnostic methods and antimicrobial therapies for H. pylori are also presented. A look to future directions in therapies includes a hoped-for vaccine to prevent gastric infections with H. pylori.