<i>Helicobacter pylori </i>Status after Treatment for Perforated Gastroduodenal Ulcer

Abstract

This cross-sectional study was performed to evaluate the Helicobacter pylori (Hp) status as measured by serology (i.e. IgG antibodies against Hp) in patients surgically treated for perforated gastroduodenal ulcer. Of 104 consecutive patients, 67 (64%) males and 37 (36%) females with a median age of 68 (range 16-89) years and diagnosed between 1987 and 1993, 72 patients (69%) were available for long-term follow-up, of whom 56 (78%) patients completed a questionnaire, and 43 patients (60%) also provided a blood test for measurement of IgG antibodies. A positive serology (i.e. elevated IgG antibodies) was found in 61% of the patients at follow-up. The frequency of symptoms at follow-up in Hp-positive and Hp-negative patients was similar. A significantly higher proportion of Hp-positive patients were smokers (p < 0.01). Although not statistically significant, Hp positivity was associated with higher age and male gender. Our study provides interesting findings at follow-up regarding Hp status in patients surgically treated for this potentially fatal complication of ulcer disease. Further evaluation of the usefullness of Hp serology, and the possible clinical consequences of Hp positivity found during follow-up in this group of patients, remain to be shown in longitudinally studies.