Objectives: To determine the frequency of Helicobacter pylori (Hp) infection among primigravida and its relation to the development of preeclampsia (PE)
Patients & Methods: This cohort study included 146 primigravidas evaluated prior to the 12th week gestational age; women who developed PE were categorized as PE group and a similar number of pregnant women free of hypertensive manifestations as control (No PE) group. All patients were evaluated for age and body mass index (BMI) and underwent Hp diagnosis workup including Urea breath test and Hp stool antigen testing.
Results: Twenty-six women developed early and 47 developed late PE and 52 had mild, while 21 had severe PE. Development and severity of PE showed positive significant correlation with BMI. Sixty patients were Hp+; blood pressure measures at the time of development of PE were significantly higher in Hp+ than in Hp- patients, irrespective of developing PE. Blood pressure measures and BMI showed positive significant correlation with Hp positivity. Statistical analysis defined high BMI as the significant independent predictor for the development of PE.
Conclusion: High BMI may underlie the development and severity of PE and is associated with Hp infection.