OBJECTIVE:

We aimed to study the relationship between Helicobacter pylori and hyperemesis gravidarum by using the Helicobacter pylori stool antigen test and serologic tests.

MATERIALS and METHODS:

41 cases who were interned with the diagnosis of hyperemesis gravidarum and 40 asympthomatic pregnant women were prospectively included in the study. Serum samples were studied for Helicobacter pylori specific antibodies (Immunoglobulin/IgG and IgA), were as stool samples were used for stool antigen test. Chi-square tests were used for statistical analysis.

RESULTS:

There was no difference for demographic properties between two groups. The ratio of Helicobacter pylori specific IgG positiveness was 46.3% for hyperemesis gravidarum group, while it was found 67.5% for the asympthomatic group. This difference was not statistically significant (p>0.05). IgA ratios were 4.9% and 30% fort he study and the control groups, respectively, and this difference was increased significantly in the control group (p<0.05). Ratio of positiveness of stool antigen test, which is predictor of active infection, was 52.5% (n=21) in hyperemesis gravidarum patients where it was found to be 36.5% (n=15) in control group. Contrary to serologic tests, stool antigen test was found to be positive for more patients in study group but this difference was not statistically significant (p>0.05).

DISCUSSION:

As o conclusion, Helicobacter pylori infection alone was not found to be able to describe the etiopathogenesis of hyperemesis gravidarum in this study. But, for revealing the presence of Helicobacter pylori in hyperemesis gravidarum patients, stool antigen test was thought to be more descriptive and confident compared to serologically determined specific immunoglobulins.

Keywords: Hyperemesis gravidarum, Helicobacter pylori