Case Study: A 58-Year-Old Woman Successfully Treated for Helicobacter Pylori Infection – The Importance of Follow-Up Examinations
Summary: This medical case involves a 58-year-old female patient who was diagnosed with Helicobacter pylori infection following a breath test. She was admitted to the hospital for further gastroscopy and full-genome testing of the bacteria, which revealed a high-risk strain associated with increased virulence and pathogenicity. During her 14-day treatment regimen, she received acid suppression therapy, antibiotics, and probiotics to manage gastrointestinal flora. Her abdominal pain subsided, and follow-up tests confirmed eradication of the infection. She returned for a one-month post-discharge checkup and remains under ongoing observation.
Patient Profile:
- Gender: Female
- Age: 58 years
- Diagnosis: Helicobacter pylori infection with high-virulence strain
- Hospital: First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University
- Visit Date: June 2022
- Treatment Plan: Oral medications including omeprazole enteric-coated capsules, amoxicillin capsules, and bifidobacterium quadruple viable tablets
- Treatment Duration: 14 days inpatient, followed by outpatient follow-up after one month
- Outcome: Complete resolution of symptoms and successful eradication of H. pylori
Initial Consultation and Diagnosis
The patient had not undergone any medical checkups in the past decade. Her recent discovery of gastric cancer prompted a health screening that included a breath test, which detected an active Helicobacter pylori infection. She also reported a family history of gastric cancer and a personal history of hypertension. Upon physical examination, her blood pressure was recorded at 150/80 mmHg. She was alert, cooperative, and showed no signs of developmental abnormalities, although her mental state appeared weak. Gastroscopy revealed a raised ulcerative lesion in the antrum of the stomach. Full-genome sequencing of the H. pylori strain identified it as highly virulent. Additionally, pharmacogenomic testing indicated that she was a rapid metabolizer of proton pump inhibitors. Based on these findings, she was admitted for targeted anti-H. pylori therapy.
Treatment Approach and Medication Plan
After discussing the risks and benefits with the patient, a decision was made to initiate individualized triple therapy using omeprazole and amoxicillin to eradicate the bacterial infection. Due to her predisposition to diarrhea and use of antibiotics, a probiotic supplement (bifidobacterium quadruple viable tablets) was added to support gut microbiota balance. The dosage was adjusted according to her metabolic profile and baseline health conditions. Although surgery was recommended due to the presence of a gastric tumor, the patient initially declined the procedure and opted for conservative management.
Positive Response to Therapy
Throughout her 14-day hospital stay, the patient responded well to treatment. No adverse effects were observed, and her liver and kidney functions remained stable. Post-treatment breath testing confirmed that the H. pylori infection had been successfully eradicated. She reported feeling better overall, with improvements in appetite, sleep, and bowel habits. Her blood pressure had improved to 130/80 mmHg, and her previously present epigastric pain had resolved completely. She was discharged with instructions to return for a one-month follow-up and renewed recommendations for surgical evaluation of the gastric lesion.
Post-Treatment Recommendations and Patient Education
Despite the successful eradication of H. pylori, the patient still has an untreated gastric tumor, making long-term monitoring essential. To support her recovery and prevent complications, the following lifestyle and dietary advice was provided:
- Avoid spicy foods, alcohol, and coarse or sharp-edged meals; opt for soft, semi-liquid, or liquid diets rich in protein
- Rest adequately at home and avoid strenuous physical activity
- Monitor for warning signs such as melena, hematemesis, persistent abdominal pain, fatigue, or unexplained weight loss
- Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments for continued assessment
Clinical Insights and Preventive Health Awareness
This case highlights the serious consequences of long-standing, untreated Helicobacter pylori infection, particularly when combined with underlying gastric pathology. The patient's lack of regular medical checkups over the previous ten years likely contributed to the delayed diagnosis. Early detection and intervention are crucial in preventing disease progression and reducing the risk of gastric cancer. It is vital for individuals experiencing digestive discomfort or other concerning symptoms to seek timely medical care. Prompt treatment not only improves prognosis but also reduces long-term healthcare costs and enhances quality of life.