Hyperemesis gravidarum associated with Helicobacter pylori seropositivity

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 chi(2) 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 f test). Conclusion: Infection with H pylori may cause hyperemesis gravidarum. (C) 1998 by The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.