A comparative prospective study in the management of Helicobacter pylori infection using Lactobacillus reuteri Vs conventional therapy.

Background: Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection has become a remarkable worldwide health problem. The eradication of H. pylori has become a challenge. Probiotics have proven beneficial in reducing the side effects and increases patient compliance. Lactobacillus reuteri (L. reuteri) is frequently used probiotic and considered safe for human consumption. The aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness of a probiotic and conventional antibiotic triple therapy in the management of H. pylori infection. Methods: This was a prospective observational study carried out for a period of six months. Patient data were extracted from their medical records. Treatment outcome was evaluated based on the report of Rapid Urease Test (RUT). Symptoms were assessed using Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale (GSRS). Descriptive statistics were used to summarize patient characteristics. T-test, chi square test and one way ANOVA were used wherever appropriate. Results: A total of 105 patients with confirmed H. pylori infection were included, of which 42% were males and 58% were females. The mean age of three group patients were 38.03±10.68, 34.00±13.36 and 36.11±13.37 years. Eradication rate noted in Lactobacillus reuteri only treatment was 86%, eradication rate noted in Lactobacillus reuteri+ ppi was 86% and in antibiotic group was 92%. Patients with three different treatments have shown significant improvement in gastrointestinal symptoms (p < 0.001). Conclusion: The overall data suggest that L. reuteri is recommended for a better eradication rate and reduced gastrointestinal symptoms. Though conventional triple therapy of H. pylori has shown an increased eradication rate and significant improvement in gastrointestinal symptoms, there was no great difference when compared with L. reuteri treated patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]