7191 Electron microscopic study of association between helicobacter pylori and gsatric epithelial cells.

Abstract

Backgrounds: To study pathophysiologic roles of Helicobacter pylori, we investigate the ultrastructural relation of Helicobacter pylori to the gastric epithelial cells. Subjects and Methods: Endoscopic biopsy of gastric antrum and body were performed from thirty-one patients(18men and 13women) with chronic gastritis. These specimens were processed and observed by transmission and scanning electron microscope(Hitachi H-600, Hitachi S- 450). Results: 1) Helicobacter pylori were spiral, coccoid, and intermediate or un-defined forms. 2)Most of the Helicobacter pylori were present in the mucus gel layer, on the surface of gastric epithelium and were common at the area around the junctional complexes. 3)Coccoid forms were most common in the mucosal layer. 4)The gastric epithelial cells show increased cytoplasmic electron density, few microvilli, disruption of apical membrane, presence of cell fragments in intercellular space and mucosal layer. Junctional complexes were frequently observed deep in the intercellular space between the cytoplasmic elevation filled with secretory granules. Complete destruction of junctional complex was not common. Conclusions: Helicobacter pylori had variable relations to the gastric epithelial cells in human stomach. These features may contribute to the pathogenic action of the organism.