H. pylori
H. pylori
H. pylori (pronounced as H. pylori), also known as Helicobacter pylori, is a type of bacteria that can infect the stomach. It is known to be a common cause of peptic ulcers.
Etymology
The name Helicobacter pylori is derived from the Greek words helix (spiral) and bakterion (small rod), referring to the bacterium's spiral shape. The pylori part of the name comes from the word pylorus, the part of the stomach that the bacterium primarily infects.
Description
H. pylori is a Gram-negative, microaerophilic bacterium found in the stomach. It is capable of surviving in the harsh acidic environment of the stomach by producing urease, an enzyme that neutralizes stomach acid.
Infection and Symptoms
Infection with H. pylori can lead to gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining), peptic ulcer disease, and certain types of stomach cancer. Symptoms of an H. pylori infection can include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and bloating, although many people with the infection do not experience any symptoms.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis of an H. pylori infection can be made through a blood test, stool test, or urea breath test. Treatment typically involves a combination of antibiotics and proton pump inhibitors to kill the bacteria and reduce stomach acid.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on H. pylori
- Wikipedia's article - H. pylori
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