Helicobacter Pylori: a comprehensive review for primary care providers

Rom J Intern Med. 2021 May 8;59(2):112-118. doi: 10.2478/rjim-2020-0043. Print 2021 Jun 1.

Abstract

Helicobacter pylori is the most prevalent bacteria infecting humans resulting in a variety of gastrointestinal and extra gastrointestinal complications. Although most of the infected adults are asymptomatic, the prevalence varies in different parts of the world it is higher in Eastern and Southern Europe. Eradication of Helicobacter pylori is necessary to prevent precancerous conditions like gastric atrophy, gastric intestinal metaplasia and gastric dysplasia. This comprehensive review addresses briefly on: whom and how to test and treat including recommended first line therapies, salvage therapies, testing for eradication and strategy to be used in primary care clinics.

Keywords: atrophy; dysplasia and salvage; eradication; metaplasia.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / therapeutic use
  • Europe / epidemiology
  • Helicobacter Infections / diagnosis*
  • Helicobacter Infections / drug therapy*
  • Helicobacter Infections / epidemiology
  • Helicobacter Infections / prevention & control
  • Helicobacter pylori*
  • Humans
  • Prevalence
  • Primary Health Care*
  • Salvage Therapy

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents