Association of Helicobacter pylori Infection with Clinical Characteristics and Steroid Response in Patients with Immune Thrombocytopenia: An Observational Study

Background: Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) is an autoimmune disorder characterized by reduced platelet counts. Helicobacter pylori infection has been implicated in ITP pathogenesis, though its effect on clinical features and initial treatment response remains unclear. Objective: To assess the impact of H. pylori infection on baseline characteristics, platelet counts, and corticosteroid response in adult ITP patients, including the role of ABO blood groups. Methods: This observational comparative study included 100 adult primary ITP patients, equally divided into H. pylori-positive and negative groups based on stool antigen testing. Clinical and laboratory data were analyzed, and steroid response was evaluated using standard criteria. Statistical tests and logistic regression were applied to identify predictors of outcomes. Results: Baseline characteristics and platelet counts were comparable between groups. Steroid response rates were similar (56% vs 54%, P=0.84). Among blood group Of patients, H. pylori-positive individuals had significantly lower platelet counts than negatives (P<0.001). In positive group, male sex predicted better steroid response, while higher BMI correlated with refractory disease. No independent predictors were identified in the negative group. Conclusion: H. pylori infection does not affect baseline platelet levels or initial steroid response in ITP. However, interactions with host factors, particularly ABO blood group and sex, may influence disease severity and treatment outcomes.