Helicobacter heilmannii infection in a child after successful eradication of Helicobacter pylori: case report and review of literature

An 11-year-old boy with Helicobacter pylori-associated duodenal ulcer was successfully treated with a combination of lansoprazole, amoxicillin, and clarithromycin. Endoscopy and gastric biopsies were repeated 2 and 12 months later, showing ulcer healing and eradication of H. pylori. However, a 3-year follow-up study demonstrated H. heilmannii in the antral mucosa based on its characteristic morphology and positive urease test and negative culture. The patient had no contact with domestic animals such as cats and dogs. A 7-day course with lansoprazole, amoxicillin, and clarithromycin was performed again, resulting in successful eradication of the organism. Pediatric cases with H. heilmannii infection reported are reviewed.