|
|
|
|
Several lines of evidence point toward a relationship between infection and atherosclerotic vascular disease. Thus, infection and inflammation often precede ischemic neurological events. Transient alterations in coagulation and direct arte rial invasion by certain microorganisms have been reported. Helicobacter pylori infection is the major cause of peptic ulcer disease and appears to be a risk factor for ischemic cerebrovascular disease. However, in contrast to other chronic infectious a gents, H pylori has not been consistently isolated from atherosclerotic lesions. H pylori is present in a substantial number of carotid atherosclerotic lesions and is associated with features of inflammatory cell response. This study provides additional evidence of the relationship between H pylori infection and atherosclerotic disease. |
|