Antral nodularity identifies children infected with Helicobacter pylori with higher grades of gastric inflammation.

BACKGROUND

The endoscopic pattern of antral nodularity is a peculiar finding in children with Helicobacter pylori infection. The aim of this study was to determine whether this finding is related to more severe gastritis.

METHODS

One hundred seventy-four consecutive children (median age 8.7 years) referred for gastroscopy were studied. Biopsy specimens from the antrum and body of the stomach were taken to assess H pylori status, gastritis score, and lymphoid follicles. Clinical diagnosis, major symptoms and endoscopic findings were recorded.

RESULTS

Eighty-four (48%) children (median age 10.5 years) had evidence of H pylori infection. The endoscopic pattern of antral nodularity was found only in children infected with H pylori (34/84, 40.5% vs. 0/90, 0%, p < 0.0001% 100% specificity, 40.5% sensitivity). Among all children infected with H pylori, the gastritis score was higher (p < 0.0001) in those with antral nodularity (n = 34) than in those without (n = 50). Completely normal gastric mucosal histology was never found in children infected with H pylori with antral nodularity. The presence and number of lymphoid follicles was strongly related to the finding of antral nodularity (p < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

The endoscopic pattern of antral nodularity identifies children with H pylori infection, severe gastritis, and increased lymphoid follicles.