Helicobacter pylori

Definition

Helicobacter pylori is a gram-negative, spiral-shaped bacterium that colonizes the human stomach lining. It is associated with various gastrointestinal diseases, including peptic ulcers and gastric cancer.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Helicobacter pylori can survive in the acidic environment of the stomach due to its production of urease, which neutralizes stomach acid.
2. This bacterium is classified under the phylum Proteobacteria and is a common cause of chronic gastritis.
3. H. pylori infection can be diagnosed through non-invasive tests such as urea breath tests, stool antigen tests, and blood antibody tests.
4. It has a unique ability to alter the pH around it by converting urea into ammonia and carbon dioxide.
5. The presence of H. pylori significantly increases the risk for developing gastric cancer and mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma.

Review Questions

• How does Helicobacter pylori survive in the acidic environment of the stomach?
• What are some diagnostic methods used to detect H. pylori infection?
• What types of gastrointestinal diseases are associated with H. pylori?

Related terms

Proteobacteria:

A major phylum of gram-negative bacteria that includes a wide variety of pathogens.

Urease:

An enzyme produced by H. pylori that breaks down urea into ammonia and carbon dioxide, helping to neutralize stomach acid.

Peptic Ulcer: A sore on the lining of the stomach or duodenum often caused by an infection with Helicobacter pylori.