Helicobacter pylori


  • Gram-negative micro-aerophilic, spiral shaped organism
  • thought to be responsible for peptic ulcers
  • increases gastric acid secretion
  • contains urease
    • splits urea to ammonia and carbon dioxide
    • causes local increase in pH

Investigations

  • biopsy
  • breath test
  • CLO test

Treatment

  • Triple therapy
    • PPI
    • 2 antibiotics