From the Guidelines
Stool Changes Associated with H. pylori Infection
In patients infected with H. pylori, stool changes can occur, including greasy stools, diarrhea, or constipation. However, the most notable stool change associated with H. pylori infection is the presence of occult blood in the stool, which can be detected using a fecal occult blood test (FOBT) 1.
Some key points to consider:
- Stool antigen test: This test can be used to diagnose H. pylori infection and has a sensitivity and specificity of more than 90% in untreated patients 1.
- Noninvasive tests: The urea breath test (UBT) and stool antigen test are noninvasive tests that can be used to detect active H. pylori infection 1.
- Gastrointestinal symptoms: H. pylori infection can cause gastrointestinal symptoms, and stool changes can be a manifestation of the infection.
- Treatment: Treatment of H. pylori infection typically involves a combination of medications, including a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) and antibiotics, for a duration of 7-14 days.
- Follow-up testing: After completion of treatment, a follow-up stool antigen test or UBT should be performed to confirm eradication of the infection 1.
It is essential to note that the presence of H. pylori infection can be confirmed by a urea breath test, stool antigen test, or endoscopy, depending on the presentation 1. If symptoms persist or stool changes continue, further evaluation and management may be necessary.
From the Research
Stool Changes Associated with H. pylori Infection
There is limited information available on stool changes associated with H. pylori infection in the provided studies.
- The studies primarily focus on antibiotic resistance, treatment, and eradication of H. pylori infection, rather than its effects on stool 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- None of the studies directly address stool changes associated with H. pylori infection.
- However, one study mentions the detection of H. pylori and its antimicrobial resistance in faeces as an interesting approach 2.
Related Findings
While the studies do not directly address stool changes, they do provide information on the effects of H. pylori infection on the body, including:
- Hematological parameters, such as decreased hemoglobin, red cell count, and hematocrit 5.
- Serum iron and vitamin B12 levels, which are significantly lower in patients infected with H. pylori 5.
- Antibiotic resistance patterns and treatment outcomes 2, 4, 6.
Overall, there is a lack of research on the specific topic of stool changes associated with H. pylori infection in the provided studies.