The Evolving Challenges of Helicobacter pylori Disease, Diagnostics, and Treatment, Part II

Helicobacter pylori infects half of the world's population; is associated with several severe gastric illnesses, including peptic ulcer disease and gastric cancer; and causes significant morbidity in its host. Several trends in the field of H. pylori have evolved recently, drastically changing the way that these infections are managed. Part I of this article was published in the February 1, 2013 issue of Clinical Microbiology Newsletter (Vol. 35, No. 3) and provided a concise overview of the pathogenesis and epidemiology of the disease, as well as a review of recommendations for the use of laboratory tests for establishing the diagnosis of infection. Part II of this article reviews treatment strategies and issues concerning medical reimbursement.