This book provides a detailed review of the most recent pathogenetic, diagnostic and therapeutic approaches in connection with Helicobacter pylori, along with priority areas in research and trends in clinical practice to address this significant pathogen acknowledged as the causative agent in a wide range of diseases, including gastric adenocarcinoma, MALT lymphoma and immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP). Medical authorities worldwide now recommend a "test and treat" strategy for this bacterial infection. Eradication therapy approaches range from general mass eradication therapy to tailor-made therapy for antibiotic-resistant refractory infection. In regions with high prevalence of H. pylori infection, the infection itself would be considered a major parameter to predict the risk of gastric adenocarcinoma development. The main interest has shifted recently to the risk stratification strategy for gastric cancer development and to the wide-ranging application of its serological prevention program. This book will benefit all gastroenterologists, hematologists, dermatologists, primary care doctors, epidemiologists, physicians who related with community hygiene, as well as basic scientists, particularly microbiologists, bacteriologists, pathologists, molecular biologists, biochemists, immunologists and oncologists.

Dr Hidekazu Suzuki,Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, JapanDr Robin Warren,A winner of the 2005 Nobel Prize winner in Physiology or MedicineEmeritus Professor at the University of Western Australia and the Royal Perth Hospital, Australia Dr Barry Marshall,A winner of the 2005 Nobel Prize winner in Physiology or MedicineMarshall Centre for Infectious Diseases Research and Training, School of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, The University of Western Australia, Australia