Objective: To investigate the potential correlation between Helicobacter pylori infection and otitis media with effusion (OME) risk in children.
Data sources: Electronic databases were searched, including Cochrane Library, PubMed, Embase, China Biology Medicine disc, China Science and Technology Journal Database, Wanfang Database, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure Database.
Review methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted with Revman 5.3 software. Combined odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated to estimate infection-disease association.
Results: In total, 11 studies from 9 articles regarding H pylori infection and OME risk were enrolled in this meta-analysis. A significant association between H pylori infection and OME was detected for both adenoid samples from the case group (OR, 2.75; 95% CI, 1.43-5.30; P = .002) and middle ear fluid samples from the case group (OR, 4.45; 95% CI, 2.52-7.88; P < .00001). Subgroup analyses suggested a stronger correlation in African and Asian populations.
Conclusion: This study indicated the correlation between H pylori infection and increased risk of OME in children, especially in African and Asian populations. Further well-designed studies regarding the white population are strongly recommended in the future.
Keywords: Helicobacter pylori; children; infection; meta-analysis; otitis media with effusion.