Helicobacter pylori and peptic ulcer disease

PREVIEW

Helicobacter pylori is widely accepted as the pathogenic cause of peptic ulcer disease, and studies show that its eradication effects a cure in infected patients. Combination antimicrobial therapy has been successful in not only curing the disease, but also significantly decreasing recurrence. However, only about one third of primary care physicians prescribe this therapy. The authors look at the latest diagnostic techniques and therapies used to identify and treat H pylori-associated peptic ulcer disease, with an emphasis on cost-effectiveness and patient compliance.