Extraintestinal manifestations of Helicobacter pylori: A concise review

Abstract

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection has been clearly linked to peptic ulcer disease and some gastrointestinal malignancies. Increasing evidence demonstrates possible associations to disease states in other organ systems, known as the extraintestinal manifestations of H. pylori. Different conditions associated with H. pylori infection include those from hematologic, cardiopulmonary, metabolic, neurologic, and dermatologic systems. The aim of this article is to provide a concise review of the evidence that supports or refutes the associations of H. pylori and its proposed extraintestinal manifestations. Based on data from the literature, PUD, mucosal associated lymphoid tumors lymphoma, and gastric adenocarcinoma has well-established links. Current evidence most supports extraintestinal manifestations with H. pylori in immune thrombocytopenic purpura, iron deficiency anemia, urticaria, Parkinson’s, migraines and rosacea; however, there is still plausible link with other diseases that requires further research.

Keywords: Migraine; Iron deficiency; Urticaria; Rosacea; Immune thrombocytopenic purpura

Core tip:Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is the most common chronic infection in humans and has been associated with a variety of extraintestinal manifestations. While evidence exists for associations, the strongest correlation for H. pylori infection is for iron deficiency anemia and immune thrombocytopenic purpura. Symptom improvement noted in urticaria and rosacea with eradication therapy. Possible association with stroke, coronary artery disease, Parkinson’s and Alzheimers.