The need for Helicobacter pylori eradication therapy in patients with peptic ulcer bleeding

KC Lai, SK Lam
Department of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Pokfulam, Hong Kong

Peptic ulcer bleeding is an important complication of peptic ulceration. The condition carries significant morbidity and mortality despite advances in both endoscopic intervention techniques and pharmacological treatment. About one third of patients have a recurrence of bleeding within a few years of discharge. Before Helicobacter pylori was discovered, most of these patients were given maintenance therapy with antisecretory drugs or surgery to prevent a recurrence of the bleeding. Since the eradication of Helicobacter pylori reduces the recurrence of uncomplicated peptic ulcers, its eradication should also reduce peptic ulcer complications. The aim of this review is to discuss the value of eradicating Helicobacter pylori as part of the long-term management of bleeding peptic ulcers.

Hong Kong Med J 1999;5:163-8

Key words: Helicobacter infections; Helicobacter pylori; Peptic ulcer hemorrhage