Molecular detection of Helicobacter pylori in gastric biopsies and dental plaques of dyspeptic children

Background: Oral cavity is a significant possible reservoir of H. pylori as well as the gastric mucosa, and it contributes to the occurrence of diseases in both oral cavity and stomach. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the occurrence of H. pylori in dental plaque and gastric biopsy samples in dyspeptic children. Subject & Methods: Dental plaques and gastric biopsies were collected from 55 children (15 girls and 40 boys; age range 2-14 years) who underwent upper gastrointestinal endoscopy in Gastroenterology Unit, Mansoura University Children Hospital (MUCH). H. pylori was detected in gastric biopsies by histopathological stains. DNA was extracted from frozen gastric biopsy and dental plaque specimens and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was done for detection of H. pylori in both gastric biopsies and dental plaques. Results: H. pylori was detected by histopathology in 30/55 (54.5%) children. H. pylori was detected by PCR in 25/55 (45.5%) and 18/55 (32.7%) of gastric biopsies and dental plaques, respectively. The presence of H. pylori in the dental plaque of children was significantly higher in children below 6 years and was more frequent in those who have dental caries. Conclusions: Dental plaque may be a significant reservoir of H. pylori. Oral hygiene and removal of dental plaque must be performed along with antibiotic treatment of H. pylori infection.