Helicobacter Pylori Infection

Helicobacter pylori is a pathogenic microorganism that can live in the stomach and duodenum of humans. H. pylori has infected two-thirds of the world's population, although most show no symptoms, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

History

• Barry Marshall and Robin Warren discovered H. pylori in 1983. Their subsequent studies on the bacterium led to the 2005 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine. Although identified relatively recently, its presence has been found in Mexican pre-Columbian mummies.

Transmission

• The only proven route of transmission is via endoscopes in a medical setting, which is easily avoided by using proper sterilization techniques. One suspected mode includes tainted well water used for drinking or washing fruits and vegetables.

Infection

• Most bacteria cannot survive the gastric acid of the stomach. In addition to the multiple protective layers of the cell wall, H. pylori is able to produce the enzyme urease, which neutralizes stomach acid.

Symptoms

• Most infected individuals are asymptomatic but an aching or burning pain in the stomach is common. Other symptoms include nausea, vomiting, belching and bloating.

Illnesses

• The infection can cause gastric and duodenal ulcers. There is a higher risk for developing stomach cancer when infected.