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Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a major infectious agent, transmitted mainly by the oral route and
primarily involving the upper gastrointestinal tract. The prevalence of H. pylori infection varies
significantly worldwide, being higher in developing countries, indicating an important role of
socioeconomic milieu in its transmission.There are invasive and non-invasive tests to diagnose H. pylori
infection. This study was undertaken to determine the prevalence of H. pylori infection and its role in the
pathogenesis of various gastrointestinal disorders including peptic ulcer disease and gastric carcinoma.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: The laboratory methods employed in this study were rapid urease test
(RUT) and histopathological examination by Giemsa staining, using endoscopy guided biopsy samples of
the gastric corpus and antrum. Diagnostic confirmation of the presence of H. pylori was made if either of
the two tests were positive. RESULTS: A total of 36 (48.0%) and 32 (42.7%) patients were diagnosed to
be infected with H. pylori by the histology and RUT respectively. Gastritis (37.3%) was the most common
endoscopy abnormality and pathologic feature identified. Patients exhibited varied presentation of
symptoms such as epigastric pain, nausea, vomiting, bloating , regurgitation, postprandial fullness, early
satiety, melena, loss of weight and appetite. Conculsion: Early detection of H. pylori and prompt
eradication therapy are essential in preventing serious consequences. H. pylori infection is a health care
issue which requires public health interventions.
Keywords: Helicobacter pylori, rapid urease test, histopathology, gastrointestinal diseases, endoscopy.