Prevalence of Helicobacter pylori among children with chronic gastritis and peptic ulcer
General Medicine, 2023, 25(6), 3-7.
V. Nedkova-Milanova1, Z. Gorcheva2, I. Pakov3, P. Laleva4, M. Karcheva3
1 Department of General Medicine, Faculty of Public Health, Medical University – Pleven
2 Department of Therapeutic Care, Faculty of Health Care, Medical University – Pleven
3 Department of Infectious Diseases, Epidemiology, Parasitology and Tropical Medicine, Faculty of Public Health, Medical University – Pleven
4 Medical Center „Exacta Medica” ‒ Pleven
Abstract. The aim of our study was to prove the presence of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection in children with chronic gastritis and peptic ulcer and to evaluate the importance of early diagnosis of the diseases. Material and methods: 78 children who visited the pediatric outpatient clinic of UMBAL – Pleven (June-July 2023) were prospectively studied for various complaints pointing to chronic gastritis and peptic ulcer. An interview based on a previously prepared questionnaire was conducted. Demographics and clinical complaints were analyzed. For the purpose of diagnosis, laboratory and imaging tests were performed. A stool test for H. pylori was performed. Results: Leading reasons for visiting the office were patients with gastric reflux (n = 36; 46.1%), abdominal pain (n = 29; 37.2%), weight loss (n = 13; 16.7%). After examination and test results, diagnoses were made: duodenal ulcer in 8 and chronic gastritis in 70 children. 28 children had a stool test for H. pylori. Seven of them (25%) had positive results, mostly boys (n = 5). Of the positive, 5 children have chronic gastritis and iron deficiency anemia. The remaining two positive for H. pylori had peptic ulcer disease. All children received treatment. Administration of an iron preparation was effective after eradication of the pathogen. Conclusions: Applied antigen tests for diagnosis of H. pylori infection are necessary for early diagnosis and etiological treatment.
Key words: Helicobacter pylori, chronic gastritis, peptic ulcer, children
Address for correspondence: Assist. prof. Vanya Nedkova-Milanova, MD, PhD, e-mail: vania_milanova@yahoo.com