Antibody titres in Helicobacter pylori infection: implications in the follow-up of antimicrobial therapy.

Regular presence and persistence of specific serum antibodies in Helicobacter pylori infection gives an excellent tool for diagnostic work. Eradication of the infection leads to gradual disappearance of the gastritis and decrease of specific serum antibodies. The fall of IgG and IgA antibody titres can be followed with quantititative enzyme immunoassays. Success in eradication is reflected in 40-50% decrease of antibody titres within 5-6 months. The decrease continues and most patients have normal titres within 2 years. Serology offers a cheap and convenient way to follow the treated patients and makes most follow-up endoscopies unnecessary.