Frequency of Helicobacter pylori infection in children under 4 years of age.

The work aimed at establishment of frequency of Helicobacter pylori (Hp) infection in children under 4 years of age. One hundred ninety-eight children (6 month to 4 year) were tested using urea breath test (UBT) with the non-radioactive isotope C-13 (50 mg of urea). The air was collected before and in the 20(th) and 30(th) minute after standard meal. The results of measurements (mass spectrometry IRMS) were given as a quotient (CO2)-C-13/CO2 (delta), and a positive value was set at delta>3,5 parts per thousand. Parents of tested children were asked to fill in a questionnaire on a somatic development, the digestive tract symptoms of a child and family members as well as socioeconomic conditions. The data were analyzed to establish the risk factors in Hp infection in children. Hp infection was found in 18,38% of children. It was not related to child's sex nor age. The statistical significance was found in the occurrence of Hp infection among children whose family members had infection and among those attending creches or kindergartens. Non-radioactive C-13 UBT is very useful and easy method to use in epidemiological studies even in youngest children. The course of infection was asymptomatic and had no impact on their somatic development. Factors increasing the risk of Hp infection were occurrence of Hp among other family members and contact with other children in educational facilities.