Frequency of H-Pylori Infection in Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura

Objective: To determine the frequency of Helicobacter pylori infection in patients with Immune Thrombocytopenia (ITP) and the impact of eradication therapy on platelet counts. Study design & Setting: It was a cross-sectional study conducted at National institute of blood disease and bone marrow transplant (NIBD) hospital, Karachi, Pakistan from January 2021 to September 2022. Methodology: Adults between 18 to 70 years of either gender with thrombocytopenia (platelet count less than 100x109/L) with or without bleeding manifestation from last six months were recruited. The immunoassay was used for stool sample to detect H. pylori antigen, eradication therapy was administered and platelet counts were evaluated at 3rd and 6th month of treatment. Results: Of 120 patients with ITP, the mean age was 36.67±15.32 years, and 76.7% were female. 35.83% had H. pylori positive. The eradication treatment on platelet counts was statistically significant (p=0.001). Median platelet counts at baseline, 3 months and 6 months were 43.50(23.00- 77.00), 136.50 (57.00- 237.00), and 192.00 (130.50-275.50) patients respectively. Platelet counts were statistically different between baseline with three and six months (p=0.007 and p=0.001, respectively). Conclusion: People with ITP frequently have H. pylori infections, and eradication treatment could contribute to the increase in platelet count.