Definition of Helicobacter pylori
Helicobacter pylori: Bacteria that cause stomach
inflammation (gastritis) and ulcers in the stomach. This bacteria is
the most common cause of ulcers worldwide. It is often referred to as
H. pylori.
H. pylori infection is usually acquired from contaminated food and
water and through person to person spread. The infection is
common in crowded living conditions with poor sanitation. In
countries with poor sanitation, 90% of the adult population can be
infected. In the U.S., 30% of the adult population is infected.
One out of six patients with H. pylori infection develops ulcers
of the duodenum or the stomach. This bacteria is also believed to be
associated with stomach cancer and a rare type of lymph gland tumor
called gastric MALT lymphoma.
Infected persons usually carry the infection indefinitely,
unless treated with medications to eradicate the bacteria.
Last Editorial Review: 8/8/2000
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