Helicobacter pylori Eradication Therapy Ameliorates Latent Digestive Symptoms in Chronic Atrophic Gastritis

Abstract

Background/aims: This study investigated the effect of Helicobacter pylori eradication therapy on latent digestive symptoms in chronic atrophic gastritis.

Methods: We enrolled 650 health checkup patients who underwent eradication therapy for chronic gastritis and completed a self-report questionnaire before and after the treatment between January 2014 and December 2016 at the Japanese Red Cross Society Kyoto Daiichi Hospital.

Results: H. pylori eradication therapy for chronic atrophic gastritis improved latent digestive symptoms, including both the acid reflux and dyspepsia components in the frequency scale for the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (FSSG) scores. The effect was sustained until 1 year after the treatment. Higher FSSG scores (≥8 points) before H. pylori eradication therapy and age <70 years were significantly associated with the improvement of digestive symptoms after H. pylori eradication therapy.

Conclusion: H. pylori eradication therapy may improve patients' quality of life through the resolution of latent abdominal symptoms.

Keywords: Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale; H. pylori eradication therapy; Latent digestive symptoms.