Changes in biochemical parameters related to atherosclerosis after Helicobacter pylori eradication

Background Recent evidence suggests that Helicobacter pylori infection is involved in the pathogenesis of extra-gastrointestinal diseases such as coronary heart disease. Aim To determine the association of H. pylori infection with biochemical parameters of atherosclerosis in the serum. Methods One hundred and fifty-nine patients with H. pylori-positive peptic ulcer (duodenal ulcer, n=89; gastric ulcer, n=70) receiving triple therapy were studied prospectively for up to 3 years for clinical parameters associated with inflammation and cardiovascular events. Blood was tested at the time of annual check-up. Results Eradication was successful in 137 patients (86%), and body weight, body mass index (BMI) and TG levels increased gradually each year. No significant hanges were seen in plasma levels of total cholesterol, interleukin-6 or interleukin-8, whereas those of HDL-C increased significantly, and those of C-reactive protein, fibrinogen and LDL-C decreased. Conclusion There is evidence for the possible implication of H. pylori infection in the etiology of cardiovascular events via its exacerbation of or influence on risk factors of atherogenesis.