The role of Campylobacter pylori in the pathogenesis of peptic ulcer disease.

Most patients with peptic ulceration have chronic gastritis, which typically involves predominantly the antrum. The association between Campylobacter pylori-associated gastritis and peptic ulceration has recently been repeatedly demonstrated. Evidence is accumulating that the bacterium plays a causal role in type-B chronic gastritis. C. pylori also colonizes the duodenum when gastric metaplasia is present. It is likely that the inflamed mucosa is more susceptible to ulcerogenic influences affecting either the stomach or duodenum.