[Relevance of Helicobacter pylori infection in the development of gastric tumors].

Helicobacter pylori plays an important role in the pathogenesis of peptic ulcer disease. Besides, epidemiological studies indicate that helicobacter may be involved in the development of gastric cancer and MALT-lymphoma by inducing gastritis and accumulation of lymph follicles in the gastric mucosa. The carcinogenic effect of helicobacter pylori can be explained by various pathogenetic factors which are produced by the bacterium itself. Furthermore, influences of helicobacter pylori on the vitamin C content of gastric mucosa might play a role. Currently, Hp-eradication therapies for the treatment of gastric MALT lymphomas are already under investigation in controlled studies. Concerning gastric cancer prevention, however, the available data are not sufficient to warrant a general recommendation for eradication-therapies of all Hp-infected persons. However, further studies must show whether Hp-eradication of high-risk subjects, i.e. members of gastric cancer families, young patients with chronic-active gastritis or with chronic-atrophic gastritis and intestinal metaplasia, are effective in reducing gastric cancer risk.