Nodular gastritis and Helicobacter pylori infection in childhood

Abstract

Helicobacter pylori (HP) associated gastritis and peptic
ulcer have been initially reported in adult patients. Recently,
this association has also been demonstrated in children.
We investigated 18 children (8-14 years old) with recurrent
abdominal pain. In 7 patients gastroduodenoscopy revealed
gastritis and HP was identified. Giemsa stain was more
sensitive than urease testing in identifying the bacteria. In
5 of the 7, a nodular appearance of the antral mucosa was
observed. The histological examination suggests lymphoid
hyperplasia as the cause of the nodularity. All 7 patients
became symptomless after a triple therapy with omeprazole,
clarithromycin and amoxycillin for 2 weeks.
We conclude that nodular gastritis is a peculiar type of gastritis
in children. It is frequently found in association with
HP infection. Two weeks triple therapy is an effective treatment
in children with HP infection.
Key words: Helicobacter pylori, nodular gastritis, peptic
ulcer disease, childhood