Prevalence of Helicobacter pylori antibodies in long-term dialysis patients.

BACKGROUND

Helicobacter pylori has been reported to play an important role in the development of gastritis and gastric ulcer.

METHODS

This study included 168 patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD; 30 non-dialysis patients, 138 patients receiving dialysis; mean duration of dialysis: 57.3 +/- 61.7 months) and 138 control volunteers. We investigated the prevalence of H. pylori infection by measuring H. pylori antibody (IgG) levels.

RESULTS

The prevalence of H. pylori infection was 62.3% in the control group, 53.3% in the non-dialysis patients, and 36.9% in the dialysis patients. The percentage decreased with a reduction of renal function. In addition, the proportion of H. pylori-positive patients decreased with the duration of dialysis, and the antibody titre was also significantly decreased. There was no association between long-term oral administration of H2RA (H2 receptor antagonist) and the incidence of H. pylori infection.

CONCLUSION

Among dialysis patients, the proportion of H. pylori-positive patients was low. An aetiological factor other than H2RA agents was suggested. Renal failure or dialysis treatment may influence H. pylori infection.