Empirical PPI Therapy in Populations with High Prevalences of H. pylori Infection

Empirical treatment of patients with typical symptoms (heartburn and regurgitation) of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is the standard of care in the U.S.; directed testing . . .

Empirical treatment of patients with typical symptoms (heartburn and regurgitation) of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is the standard of care in the U.S.; directed testing is reserved for patients with alarm symptoms (e.g., dysphagia, bleeding, weight loss, emesis). This approach is supported by economic models and by a recent expert consensus group (Genval Workshop Report; Gut 1999; 44 (Suppl 2):S1). In this study, which was conducted in Japan (where prevalence of Helicobacter pylori infection is high), researchers prospectively examined whether empirical therapy, based on reflux symptoms alone, was appropriate in 460 consecutive patients with at least weekly symptoms of heartburn or acid regurgitation. GERD symptoms were determine…

Reviewing Author

David A. Johnson, MD