Helicobacter pylori

This is a small motile spiral Gram-negative bacteria that causes inflammation of the mucosa and reduces its resistance. These bacteria were discovered in 1979-1983 by Australian physiologists B. Marshall and R. Warren while studying the process of stomach ulcer formation, they found that the bacteria causing the ulcer could hide from the acid in the lining of the stomach. By examining the material of the stomach wall, they identified microbes which they named Helicobacter pylori (HP). These scientists suggested and claimed that many cases of stomach ulcers and gastritis are related to HP infection. Epidemiological studies show that more than half of the inhabitants of our planet are infected with HP bacteria. The main route of infection is through the mouth, feces. Children under 5 years of age are particularly susceptible to HP infection. If they do not get infected by that time, the probability of later infection is low. In order to prevent the transmission of this infection to young children, adults should follow basic hygiene requirements (wash hands before eating, properly clean and ventilate rooms, etc.). The infection is most common in countries with low social and economic development levels. Healthy individuals can also be carriers of these bacteria.

Source | Glossary of Most Commonly Used Biomedical Terms and Concepts | Lithuanian University of Health Sciences | Academician Professor Antanas Praškevičius, Professor Laima Ivanovienė