Helicobacter pylori Infection and Childhood

Abstract

Pediatric-based Helicobacterpylori research continues to contribute significantly to our understanding of both clinical and pathophysiological aspects of this infection. Here, we review the published pediatric H.pylori literature from April 2009-March 2010. Analysis of pediatric H.pylori strains continues to suggest that cagA(+) and cagPAI competent strains are less prevalent than in adult isolates. Studies from the Middle East report a high H.pylori prevalence and intrafamilial transmission. Data continue to show a lack of association between H.pylori and recurrent abdominal pain of childhood, gastroesophageal reflux disease, and growth retardation. Recent probiotic trials have not shown a benefit on H.pylori eradication in children, while sequential therapy remains an attractive therapeutic eradication strategy in children, which requires validation in different geographic regions.