Helicobacter salomonis

Lore & Background

Helicobacter salomonis is naturally found in the stomachs of cats, dogs, and rabbits. Reports indicate that individuals, including children, can become infected through close contact with these animals. The infections are considered zoonotic, meaning the pathogen spreads from animals to humans. The bacterium is part of the Helicobacter heilmannii sensu lato group, which includes several other non-H. pylori species that cause similar upper gastrointestinal tract diseases.

Reader's Guide

Helicobacter salomonis is significant because it is one of the non-Helicobacter pylori species that can cause serious gastrointestinal diseases in humans, including stomach inflammation, ulcers, and extranodal marginal zone lymphoma of the stomach. Its zoonotic nature highlights the importance of recognizing animal-to-human transmission in clinical settings. Diagnosis of H. salomonis and other Helicobacter heilmannii sensu lato infections is critical because some cases have been successfully treated and cured with antibiotic regimens, such as amoxicillin, clarithromycin, plus a proton pump inhibitor, or metronidazole, clarithromycin, plus a proton pump inhibitor. This treatability underscores the need for accurate identification in patients presenting with the cited upper gastrointestinal diseases.

Did You Know?

• H. salomonis is grouped with four other Helicobacter species under the term Helicobacter heilmannii sensu lato.
• Infections with H. salomonis have been successfully treated with antibiotic regimens including amoxicillin, clarithromycin, and a proton pump inhibitor.