Helicobacter pylori Infection: Current Status and Future Prospects on Diagnostic, Therapeutic and Control Challenges

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection, which affects approximately half of the world’s
population, remains a serious public health problem. As H. pylori infection leads to a number
of gastric pathologies, including inflammation, gastroduodenal ulcers, and malignancies, early
detection and treatment are crucial to preventing the spread of the infection. Multiple extragastric
complications, such as iron deficiency anaemia, immune thrombocytopenic purpura, vitamin B12
deficiency, diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular diseases, and certain neurological disorders, have also
been linked to H. pylori infection. An awareness of H. pylori and associated health hazards is necessary
to minimize or even eradicate the infection. Therefore, there is an urgent need to raise the standards
for the currently employed diagnostic, eradication, alternative treatment strategies. In addition, a
brief overview of traditional and cutting-edge approaches that have proven effective in identifying
and managing H. pylori is needed. Based on the test and laboratory equipment available and patient
clinical characteristics, the optimal diagnostic approach requires weighing several factors. The
pathophysiology and pathogenic mechanisms of H. pylori should also be studied, focusing more on
the infection-causing virulence factors of this bacterium. Accordingly, this review aims to demonstrate
the various diagnostic, pathophysiological, therapeutic, and eradication tactics available for H. pylori,
emphasizing both their advantages and disadvantages. Invasive methods (such as quick urease
testing, biopsy, or culture) or noninvasive methods (such as breath tests, stool investigations, or
serological tests) can be used. We also present the most recent worldwide recommendations along
with scientific evidence for treating H. pylori. In addition to the current antibiotic regimens, alternative
therapies may also be considered. It is imperative to eradicate the infections caused by H. pylori
as soon as possible to prevent problems and the development of stomach cancer. In conclusion,
significant advances have been made in identifying and treating H. pylori. To improve eradication
rates, peptide mass fingerprinting can be used as a diagnostic tool, and vaccines can also eliminate
the infection.