Correlation Between High Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein and Carotid Intima-Media Thickness in Patients With Helicobacter Pylori Infection

Abstract

Background 
 Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection in gastric mucosa may cause systemic inflammatory reaction, which increases risk of cardiovascular disease and atherosclerosis. 
 Objectives
 This study aimed to assess the association between H. pylori infection and serum high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), and carotid intima media thickness.
 Patients and Methods
 This is a case control study, conducted at Kurdistan center for Gastroenterology & Hepatology from Dec. 2012 to March 2014. One hundred patients with dyspepsia and positive H. pylori. 75 (39 males and 36 females) non dyspeptic apparently healthy subject with H. pylori negative as control group were assessed. The serum sample tested for H. pylori infection and Hs-CRP using ELISA and stool sample examined by using Rapid Immunoassay method to detect H. pylori antigens.
 Results
 The mean hs-CRP level was significantly different (P<0.01) between patients and controls. A significant correlation between different tests of H. pylori and hs-CRP level was found (p < 0.01). A significant correlation was found between hs-CRP level and internal carotid artery (ICA), common carotid artery (CCA) thickness in patients (p < 0.01).
 Conclusion
 H. pylori infection was significantly associated with higher serum hs-CRP.There was significant correlation between hs-CRP and carotid intima-media thickness.