Barrett's Esophagus and H. pylori Infection in Malaysia
Author Information
Author(s): Lee Yeong Yeh, Tuan Sharif Sharifah Emilia, Syed Abd Aziz Syed Hassan, Raj S. Mahendra
Primary Institution: Universiti Sains Malaysia
Hypothesis
What is the relationship between Helicobacter pylori infection, Barrett's esophagus, and reflux esophagitis in a population with low H. pylori prevalence?
Conclusion
The low rate of Barrett's esophagus in this population does not support the idea that the absence of H. pylori infection is a significant risk factor for Barrett's esophagus.
Supporting Evidence
- The rate of endoscopic esophagitis was 5.49%.
- Barrett's esophagus was present in 0.79% of the population studied.
- H. pylori infection was found in only 6.67% of subjects with Barrett's esophagus.
- Non-Malays were overrepresented among patients with reflux esophagitis and Barrett's esophagus.
Takeaway
This study looked at people in Malaysia to see if having less H. pylori bacteria in their stomachs meant they had more Barrett's esophagus. It turns out, that’s not really the case.
Methodology
The study reviewed 1895 upper endoscopies and evaluated 120 cases of columnar-lined esophagus and endoscopic esophagitis.
Potential Biases
Potential observer variation in recognizing esophagitis and Barrett's esophagus.
Limitations
The study is subject to selection bias and observer variation among endoscopists.
Participant Demographics
Participants included 80 Malays and 24 non-Malays with upper gastrointestinal symptoms.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.97
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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