Serum tumour necrosis factor-alpha is increased in patients with Helicobacter pylori infection and CagA antibodies.

Abstract

Helicobacter pylori infection is associated with increased serum levels of tumour necrosis factor-alpha. Subjects who harbour CagA positive strains have more severe mucosal damage, higher bacterial colonization, higher probability of developing duodenal ulcer and higher serum levels of tumour necrosis factor-alpha than those infected with CagA- strains.