H. pylori-Negative Ulcers Linked to Higher Mortality

People with this type of ulcer also more likely to experience recurrent bleeding

08 aug 2009-- Patients with bleeding ulcers that are negative for Helicobacter pylori are at increased risk for recurrent ulcer bleeding and mortality, according to findings published in the August issue of Gastroenterology.

Grace Lai-Hung Wong, of the Chinese University of Hong Kong, and colleagues conducted a prospective cohort study of 333 patients with bleeding ulcers. After the ulcers healed, patients were divided into two groups: those with prior H. Pylori-negative idiopathic bleeding ulcers and those with H. pylori-positive, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs-negative bleeding ulcers who received eradication therapy. The groups were followed for seven years or less.

The researchers found that patients in the H. pylori-negative group were significantly more likely to experience recurrent ulcer bleeding compared with the H. pylori-positive group (42.3 versus 11.2 percent). Likewise, the mortality rate was significantly higher in the H. pylori-negative group (87.6 versus 37.3 percent).

"Patients with a history of H. pylori-negative idiopathic bleeding ulcers had a considerable risk of recurrent ulcer bleeding and mortality. Long-term prophylaxis with a gastroprotective agent is probably needed," the authors conclude.

Several of the study authors reported financial relationships with the pharmaceutical industry.

Abstract
Full Text (subscription or payment may be required)