The Association between Helicobacter Pylori Infection and Insulin Resistance

Abstract

Introduction: Helicobacter pylori are associated with severe gastrointestinal pathologies. Moreover, it is associated with other conditions such as atherosclerosis, insulin resistance, diabetes mellitus and some autoimmune diseases. The purpose of this study is to search the relation between Helicobacter pylori infection and Insulin Resistance. Methods: Ninety patients complaining of dyspepsia was selected from Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Infectious Diseases Department, Benha University Hospital. The patients were divided into two groups with matching age, sex and the basic laboratory investigations results. Group (A) patients were Helicobacter pylori-positive. Group (B) patients were Helicobacter pylori negative based on endoscopic findings and confirmed by histopathological diagnosis and exclusion of other causes of dyspepsia. Insulin resistance was compared between the two groups. Results: In the present study, there was statistically significant association between Helicobacter pylori positive patients (51/90; 56.7%) and insulin resistance (IR) compared to Helicobacter pylori negative patients (39/90; 43.3%) (P value <0.001). The mean value of IR was 3.6 ± 0.58, 2.2 ± 0.36 respectively for Helicobacter pylori positive and Helicobacter pylori negative patients. There was no statistical significant difference between Helicobacter pylori positive and Helicobacter Pylori negative patients as regard to other investigations (P value >0.05). Conclusion: Insulin resistance has a role in the chronicity of H. pylori infection and the reduction of IR will lead to a better response of therapy in these patients.