The Association of Helicobacter pylori Infection with Endothelial Dysfunction in Pediatric Patients

The aim of this study was to evaluate endothelial dysfunction in pediatric patients with Helicobacter pylori infection. In a cross sectional study, 50 children between six and twelve years old were evaluated for Helicobacter pylori infection by a histopathologic specimen. C-reactive protein (CRP) and Interleukin -12 of all subjects was checked. Endothelial dysfunction was evaluated by echocardiography of brachial artery and through measuring flow mediated dilatation (FMD). Mean of FMD level was significantly higher in children with H. pylori infection (P value: 0.04). Interlukin-12 (IL-12) was higher in children with H. pylori infection (P value: 0.04). Linear regression showed a positive association of Helicobacter pylori infection and endothelial dysfunction (beta = 0.3, P value = 0.08). Children with Helicobacter pylori infection have more endothelial dysfunction independent of IL-12.