Helicobacter pylori infection and childhood

Pediatric-based Helicobacter pylori research continues to contribute significantly to our understanding of both clinical and pathophysiological aspects of this infection. Here, we review the published pediatric H. pylori literature from April 2009-March 2010. Analysis of pediatric H. pylori strains continues to suggest that cagA(+) and cagPAI competent strains are less prevalent than in adult isolates. Studies from the Middle East report a high H. pylori prevalence and intrafamilial transmission. Data continue to show a lack of association between H. pylori and recurrent abdominal pain of childhood, gastroesophageal reflux disease, and growth retardation. Recent probiotic trials have not shown a benefit on H. pylori eradication in children, while sequential therapy remains an attractive therapeutic eradication strategy in children, which requires validation in different geographic regions.

Helicobacter pylori infection in pediatrics

This review summarizes the literature on Helicobacter pylori infection in childhood between April 2005 and March 2006, and includes guidelines of the Canadian Helicobacter Study Group Consensus Conference, noninvasive tests, optimum therapy regimens and problems with resistance, and reviews on immune mechanisms in the gastric mucosa that may lead to the development of an effective vaccine.