Background: Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection is primarily associated with gastroduodenal disorders; however, growing evidence suggests its potential involvement in extra-gastric conditions, including cardiovascular disease. This study investigated the association between H. pylori infection, systemic inflammation, virulence factors CagA and
VacA, and ischemic heart disease (IHD).
Methods: A total of 105 patients were divided into three equal groups (n=35): patients with IHD and H. pylori infection, patients with H. pylori infection without IHD, and patients with IHD without H. pylori infection. Laboratory assessment included ALT, AST, GGT, amylase, HDL, LDL, D-dimer, CRP, IL-1, and IL-2. H. pylori infection and CagA and VacA antigens
were also evaluated.
Results: Patients with both IHD and H. pylori infection demonstrated higher CRP and IL-1 levels, with increased LDL and a tendency toward elevated ALT, and Higher H. pylori titers. CagA expression was more prominent in patients with more aggressive disease manifestations and was particularly associated with combined cardiovascular and gastrointestinal pathology. Changes in the H. pylori-only group were comparatively less pronounced.
Conclusion: The findings suggest an association between H. pylori infection, particularly virulence-associated CagA/VacA antigens, systemic inflammatory activity, and IHD. Further research is warranted to clarify their potential role in cardiovascular disease.