Title: Role of Special Stain Giemsa in Demonstration of Helicobacter Pylori in Gastric Biopsies

Authors: Dr Ruby Elizabeth Elias, Dr Bindiya Gisuthan, Dr Deepthi Raj M.L

 DOI:  https://dx.doi.org/10.18535/jmscr/v5i8.83

Abstract

Introduction: Helicobacter pylori is a gram negative, curved bacillus, found  in the gastric mucosa which  was recognized as a Class I carcinogen. Majority of  gastric adenocarcinomas and most gastric MALT lymphomas are related to chronic infection with this organism. Various invasive and noninvasive methods are available for the identification of H.pylori. The gold standard for the diagnosis remains to be histopathology and culture. But culture is a laborious and time consuming method. Histopathological identification of H.pylori  can be improved  with the use of special stains like Giemsa. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of the special stain (Giemsa) in the identification of H.pylori compared to the routine H &E stain (Hematoxylin and Eosin).

Materials and Methods: Gastric biopsies taken from dyspeptic patients were evaluated with routine H&E and Giemsa stains. The presence of H.pylori was analysed in both the groups.

Results: Out of 150 cases studied Giemsa stain revealed H.pylori in 58.67% of cases whereas routine H & E stain identified only 44.67% of cases. This was found to be statistically significant.

Discussion and Conclusion: Special stain like Giemsa should definitely be used as an adjunct to standard H &E stain for the identification of H.pylori in gastric biopsies. The depiction of H.pylori in gastric biopsies allows for the specific treatment by which the eradication of the organism can be done, thereby decreasing the incidence of gastric carcinoma and MALT Lymphoma.

Keywords:  Giemsa, Gastritis, Hematoxylin and Eosin stain.

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Corresponding Author

Dr Bindiya Gisuthan

Assistant Professor, Department of Pathology, Government Medical College,

Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India Pin-695011

Phone no: 9447250510, 0471 -2444283, Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.