Hyperemesis Gravidarum Associated With Helicobacter pylori Seropositivity

Abstract

In Brief Objective To test the hypothesis that infection with Helicobacter pylori is associated with hyperemesis gravidarum. Methods From January 1995 to November 1996 we enrolled 105 patients with hyperemesis gravidarum in a prospective study. The Helicobacter serum Immunoglobulin (Ig) G concentrations in these patients were compared with those in asymptomatic gravidas matched for week of gestation. Results Positive serum IgG concentrations were found in 95 of the 105 hyperemesis patients (90.5%) compared with 60 of 129 controls (46.5%). A χ2 test showed statistical significance (P < .001). The mean (± standard deviation) index percentages of the IgG titers were 74.2 ± 23.6% in the hyperemesis group and 24.3 ± 4.4% in the control group (P < .01, Student t test). Conclusion Infection with H pylori may cause hyperemesis gravidarum. Seropositivity for Helicobacter pylori is frequent in pregnant women with hyperemesis gravidarum.