ELECTRON-MICROSCOPIC STUDY OF ASSOCIATION BETWEEN HELICOBACTER-PYLORIAND GASTRIC AND DUODENAL MUCOSA

Aim-To study the ultrastructural appearances of Helicobacter pylori in antral and duodenal biopsy specimens and its relation with the epithe lial cells. Methods-Endiscopically obtained antral and duodenal biopsy specimens were examined using transmission electron microscopy and fr eeze fracture analysis. Results-Most bacteria looked curved, but in th e duodenal bulb coccoid bacteria were relatively common. Bacteria were often found around intercellular junctions. Freeze fracture examinati on indicated abnormalities of the tight junction complexes in patients with H pylori infection. In many biopsy specimens bacteria were seen closely attached to the epithelial cell membrane by different forms of adhesion. In addition to what looked like intracytoplasmic penetratio n by bacteria, several examples of genuine penetration were observed. Conclusion-H pylori is commonly found adhering to epithelial cells. Oc casionally, H pylori may also penetrate cells. These features may cont ribute to the pathogenic action of the organism.