Helicobacter pylori is associated with alterations in intestinal gas profile among patients with nonulcer dyspepsia.

The pathogenesis of nonulcer dyspepsia (NUD) is unknown. Gas and postprandial bloating are frequent symptoms. The role of Helicobacter pylori (HP) in the pathogenesis of NUD is controversial. We studied the intestinal gas profile of NUD patients (N = 34) at baseline and after lactulose administration. The prevalence of hydrogen and methane producers was similar among HP+ and HP- patients. Breath H2 concentrations in response to lactulose showed significantly greater rise among HP+ subjects (P < 0.0001). HP positivity was associated with higher total breath excretion for H2 and methane combined (2984 +/- 1038 vs 1776 +/- 521 ppm/hr) compared to HP- subjects (P < 0.05). There was no correlation between peak H2 and methane levels. The role of alterations in intestinal gas in producing symptoms in HP+ patients with NUD needs further investigation.