RT Journal Article SR Electronic T1 Electron microscopic study of association between Helicobacter pylori and gastric and duodenal mucosa. JF Journal of Clinical Pathology JO J Clin Pathol FD BMJ Publishing Group Ltd and Association of Clinical Pathologists SP 699 OP 704 DO 10.1136/jcp.47.8.699 VO 47 IS 8 A1 L A Noach A1 T M Rolf A1 G N Tytgat YR 1994 UL http://jcp.bmj.com/content/47/8/699.abstract AB AIM--To study the ultrastructural appearances of Helicobacter pylori in antral and duodenal biopsy specimens and its relation with the epithelial cells. METHODS--Endoscopically obtained antral and duodenal biopsy specimens were examined using transmission electron microscopy and freeze fracture analysis. RESULTS--Most bacteria looked curved, but in the duodenal bulb coccoid bacteria were relatively common. Bacteria were often found around intercellular junctions. freeze fracture examination indicated abnormalities of the tight junction complexes in patients with H pylori infection. In many biopsy specimens bacteria were seen closely attached to the epithelial cell membrane by different forms of adhesion. In addition to what looked like intracytoplasmic penetration by bacteria, several examples of genuine penetration were observed. CONCLUSION--H pylori is commonly found adhering to epithelial cells. Occasionally, H pylori may also penetrate cells. These features may contribute to the pathogenic action of the organism.