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SELECTED ARTICLES FROM THE RECENT LITERATURE 2006
12/6/06
H. pylori infection and extragastric diseases
Summary
Background – There is convincing evidence for the role of H. pylori infection in peptic ulcer disease. H. pylori infection has also been implicated in some other gastric diseases and postulated to cause certain extra-gastric disorders.
Findings – The possible role of H. pylori infection in extra-gastric disorders was reviewed by Suzuki et al. They described studies, mainly anecdotal and epidemiologic, suggesting a pathogenic role of H. pylori infection in idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura, iron deficiency, chronic urticaria and ischemic heart disease. In some of the studies, the major evidence has been remission (sometimes complete) of the extra gastric disease following therapeutic eradication of the H. pylori infection.
Reference
Int J Hematol 2006;84:291-300
Editor's Comments
There has been considerable debate about the possible pathogenic role of H. Pylori infection in chronic “idiopathic” urticaria (CIU). Some of those supporting this relationship (mainly in central Europe) cite evidence of significant reduction of the CIU when co-existent H. pylori infection is eliminated by appropriate therapy. However, others are not impressed by this association or the effects of anti-H. pylori treatment.
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