Diagnostic and Therapeutic Studies of Helicobacter Induced Gastric Mucosal Injuries in Canines

Helicobacter spp. induces significant pathological alterations in the gastric mucosa, manifested clinically by acute haematemesis, anorexia, lethargy, depression, pallor of mucous membranes, tachycardia, tachypnoea, dehydration, and diminished responsiveness to external stimuli. The correlation between Helicobacter infection and gastric disorders in dogs remains incompletely defined, although growing evidence implicates these organisms in the pathogenesis of gastritis, peptic ulceration, and gastric neoplasia. Their identification has substantially refined contemporary concepts regarding the etiology, diagnosis, and clinical management of canine gastric diseases. Ultrasonographic assessment commonly demonstrates pronounced gastric wall thickening accompanied by reduced gastric motility, changes that correspond with significant disturbances in haemato-biochemical indices and elevated oxidative stress markers. Ultrastructural evaluation through electron microscopy reveals characteristic spiral-shaped bacteria adherent to or embedded within the gastric mucosa, consistent with Helicobacter-like organisms. Molecular confirmation using Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) enables detection of Helicobacter DNA in vomitus and fecal samples, providing reliable non-invasive diagnostic evidence. Therapeutic intervention employing triple therapy—comprising either three antibiotics or two antibiotics combined with a proton pump inhibitor or other acid-suppressive agent, supplemented with antioxidants has been associated with marked clinical improvement and successful recovery within approximately 30 days.