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

Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate endothelial dysfunction in pediatric patients with Helicobacter pylori infection. Methods: 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). Results: 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). Conclusions: Children with Helicobacter pylori infection have more endothelial dysfunction independent of IL-12.