H. Pylori Infections

Many individuals of Japanese ancestry have a "weak" gastrointestinal tract, or "stomach". Although it is true that some of these persons truly have an intolerance to many foods, such as milk products as a result of an enzyme (lactase) deficiency, gastritis or even ulcer disease as a result of a bacterial infection is becoming a disease that is being recognized with increasing frequency.

Helicobacter pylori is an organism that is sparking a world-wide interest. It was originally described by an Australian pathologist about twenty years ago. At that time, no one in the medical community believed that ulcer disease could have a bacterial etiology. It was unthinkable that ulcer disease, which was traditionally believed to be a result of excess acid production and/or increases susceptibility of the mucosal lining of the gastrointestinal tract, could be caused by an infection!

H. pylori is now becoming one of the most studied organisms. It is peculiar bacterium that survives well in the hostile acid environment in the stomach and contains some unique DNA structures. Infection with this organism is associated with increased incidence of cancer of the esophagus and stomach.

At NMC, we are mindful that the Japanese population has a high incidence of H. pylori infection. Diagnostic tests such as blood tests are available. Endoscopy with biopsy is still the gold standard. All suspected cases undergo this procedure. Once the infection is confirmed, newest antibiotics, some not yet in use in Japan, can effect a complete cure in a high percentage of cases.