MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Helicobacter pylori gastritis

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Helicobacter pylori gastritis

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Illustrations Alternative names	Definition

Illustrations

Digestive system

Alternative names Return to top

Helicobacter pylori

Definition Return to top

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a bacterial organism responsible for most ulcers and many cases of chronic gastritis (inflammation of the stomach). This organism can weaken the protective coating of the stomach and duodenum (first part of the small intestines) and allow the damaging digestive juices to irritate the sensitive lining of these body parts.

Interestingly, many people have this organism in their gastrointestinal tract but don't get an ulcer or gastritis. It seems that other factors must also be present for the damage to take place.

Update Date: 12/5/2003

Updated by: Jacqueline A. Hart, M.D., Department of Internal Medicine, Newton-Wellesley Hospital, and Senior Medical Editor, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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