The frequency of Helicobacter pylori infection in vitiligo patients

Background: Helicobacter pylori is a gastrointestinal infectious agent with worldwide distribution. A potential role of H. pylori infection in several extra-intestinal diseases including autoimmune and inflammatory skin diseases such as chronic urticaria, alopecia areata, psoriasis, and rosacea have been reported. Vitiligo is a common depigmenting skin disorder and autoimmunity has been suggested in the pathogenesis of vitiligo. There are few reports of association of H. pylori infection and vitiligo. Aims: The aim of our study is to evaluate the relationship between H. pylori infection and vitiligo. Methods: The study group included 40 patients with vitiligo, and the control group included 39 age- and gender-matched individuals. H. pylori stool antigen test was performed in the patient and control groups to detect the presence of H. pylori infection. Results: H. pylori stool antigen test was positive in 20 (50%) of the patients and 13 (33.3%) of the controls. No significant difference was found in H. pylori stool antigen test positivity between the patient and the control groups (P > 0.05). Also, no significant relationship was found between H. pylori stool antigen test positivity and the family history, type, duration, and activity of vitiligo. Conclusion: Our results indicate that H. pylori infection is not increased in vitiligo patients, and it is not necessary to screen vitiligo patients routinely for H. pylori infection.