Phospholipase A2 activity in gastric juice from patients with active and H. pylori-eradicated healed duodenal ulcer

Abstract

Background: Despite the close association between gastric Helicobacter pylori infection and duodenal ulcer, little is known about how this organism may promote mucosal damage. A possibility might be that it produces, or induces the host to release, phospholipases that metabolize the protective layer of phospholipids.

Methods: Aimed at determination of phospholipase A2 activity and the concentration of choline-containing phospholipids in gastric juice, aspirates were collected during gastroscopy in 38 consecutive referrals with either active (n = 19) or H. pylori-eradicated healed duodenal ulcer (n = 19).

Results: Gastric juice phospholipase A2 activity was 3.1 times higher in active than in healed duodenal ulcers (P = 0.03). Concurrently, the concentration of choline-containing phospholipids in the group with active ulcers was less than half compared with the healed group (P = 0.02).

Conclusion: The results indicate that phospholipase A2 activity and the concentration of choline-containing phospholipids in gastric juice are related to H. pylori status and duodenal ulcer disease.