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Helicobacter pylori eradication and antral intestinal metaplasia--two years follow-up study

J Ciok1, J Dzieniszewski, C Lucer

  • 1Department of Metabolic Diseases and Gastroenterology, National Food and Nutrition Institute, Warsaw.

Insights

Eradicating Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection significantly reduces intestinal metaplasia (IM) in the gastric antrum. This regression of IM is a gradual process, with significant improvements observed over two years post-eradication.

Area of Science:

  • Gastroenterology
  • Oncology
  • Microbiology

Background:

  • Intestinal metaplasia (IM) is a precursor to gastric cancer.
  • Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection is linked to IM development.
  • Understanding IM modification by H. pylori eradication is crucial for gastric cancer prevention.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the impact of H. pylori eradication on intestinal metaplasia (IM) in the gastric antrum.
  • To assess the rate and extent of IM regression following successful H. pylori treatment.

Main Methods:

  • 35 patients with peptic ulcers, antral IM, and H. pylori infection underwent eradication therapy (omeprazole + amoxicillin).
  • Follow-up included endoscopy and biopsies every 4 months for 2 years post-treatment.
  • H. pylori status and IM grade were assessed via urease tests, histology, and endoscopic biopsies.

Main Results:

  • H. pylori eradication was successful in 66% of patients.
  • A significant decline in the mean grade of intestinal metaplasia was observed in eradicators (from 1.76 to 0.57, p < 0.01).
  • Complete IM regression occurred in 30% after 1 year and 61% after 2 years; non-eradicators showed no significant change.

Conclusions:

  • H. pylori eradication effectively reduces the severity of gastric antral intestinal metaplasia.
  • Regression of intestinal metaplasia is a prolonged process, becoming statistically significant 12 months after H. pylori eradication.
  • Successful H. pylori treatment is a key factor in managing precancerous lesions like IM.

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