Molecular Detection of <i>Helicobacter pylori</i> Clarithromycin Resistance in Stool Samples

Abstract Background Helicobacter pylori is a spiral-shaped bacterium that grows in the digestive tract. Helicobacter pylori infection has a very high prevalence, and may be present in more than half of the world’s population. In developing countries, children are very commonly infected. Helicobacter pylori may be passed from person to person through direct contact. Risk factors for Helicobacter pylori infection are related to living in crowded conditions without a reliable supply of clean water. Aim of Work The aim of the present study is to detect point mutations associated with Helicobacter pylori clarithromycin resistance in stool samples using real- time PCR to help clinicians in proper management of H. pylori infected patients. Methodology This cross-sectional study included fifty patients with symptoms consistent with Helicobacter pylori infection who attended the endoscopy unit of the Hepatology, Gastroenterology, and Infectious Disease Department, Ain Shams University Hospitals from December 2019 till May 2020. Results The results revealed high resistance rate of clarithromycin (46%), of which A2143G was (28%) and A2142G was (18%). There was no significant difference between clarithromycin resistance detection among males and females. There was no statistically significant correlation between Clarithromycin resistance and age. Conclusion This study revealed increase rate of clarithromycin-resistant H. pylori (46%) and was mainly associated with the A2143G point mutation. A2142G point mutation was also detected. There was no significant association between age and gender of the patients with clarithromycin resistance. clarithromycin- containing H.pylori eradication therapy might not be recommended as empirical therapy in Egypt.