The incidence of Helicobacter pylori in patients with interstitial cystitis

Purpose: The cause of interstitial cystitis is unknown. We evaluated the incidence of Helicobacter pylori antibodies in patients with interstitial cystitis to determine whether such infection may be a causative factor. Materials and Methods: We obtained serum samples from 23 patients with interstitial cystitis and 23 control subjects, Samples were analyzed for the presence of H. pylori IgG antibodies. Results: The incidence of positive tests for H. pylori antibodies was 22% in the interstitial cystitis group and 35% in controls. Conclusions: The incidence of infection with H. pylori is not increased in interstitial cystitis, and so it is unlikely to be a causative factor.