Abstract
AIM: To determine the long-term outcomes regarding reinfection with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) and endoscopic changes after successful H. pylori eradication. METHODS: From June 1994 to January 2007, 186 patients (M:F = 98:88; mean age 50.0 +/- 11.4 years), in whom H. pylori had been successfully eradicated, were enrolled. The mean duration of follow up was 41.2 +/- 24.0 mo. RESULTS: H. pylori reinfection occurred in 58 patients (31.2%). The average annual reinfection rate was 9.1% per patient year. No recurrence of peptic ulcer was detected at the follow up endoscopy. There were no significant differences between the H. pylori eradication regimens for the reinfection rate and no significant differences in endoscopic findings between the H. pylori-recurred group and the H. pylori-cured group. CONCLUSION: The reinfection rate in Korea is 9.1% which represents a decreasing trend. There was no relationship between H. pylori infection status and changes in endoscopic findings. There was also no recurrence or aggravation of ulcers.