What is the role of H pylori in ITP?
In Europe a strong association with H pylori infection and ITP was described. In addition, treatment for H pylori was associated with frequent remission of ITP. The high rate of infection in patients with ITP does exist in the United States but eradication of H pylori is not associated with a very high likelihood of ITP remission. Infection with H pylori is detected by antibody testing, gastric lavage, or a breath test. Many health care providers test for it and treat the infection to achieve ITP remission. Stasi R,Rossi Z, Stipa E, Amadori S, Newland AC, Provan D. Helicobacter pylori eradication in the management of patients with idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura. Am J Med. 2005;118:414-419. Kandulski A, Selgrad M, Malfertheiner P. Helicobacter pylori infection: a clinical overview. Dig Liver Dis. 2008;40(8):619-626.
