Should We Test for Helicobacter Pylori before Treating Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease?

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common problem in childhood. The cause is uncertain but because the incidence of GERD is increasing in developed countries and the prevalence of Helicobacter pylori is decreasing, it has been suggested that this infection protects against GERD. Observational data from 95 children, however, suggest that H. pylori eradication does not have a deleterious effect on GERD and this is supported by randomized …