Abstract 639

Introduction: Previous reports have suggested an etiological association between H. pylori infection and SIDS ( Gastroenterology 1997).

Aims: To critically examine this association by different techniques i.e.: histology, immunohistochemistry, and PCR.

Methods: Paraffin embedded tracheal and stomach specimens of 25 infants, 6 months of age or younger, who dies from SIDS in WV between 1995-97 were examined. All specimen were evaluated by Histology (H&E, Giemsa), Immunohistochemistry (242M; BioGenex), and nested-PCR.

Results: Twenty three of 25 specimen were adequate for histological examination. Mild chronic gastritis was found in 3 (13%) specimens. H. pylori organism was not identified by Giemsa stain in any of the trachea or stomach specimens. Immunohistochemistry was negative for H. pylori organisms in all specimens. In 6 different specimens (stomach-3, trachea-3), H. pylori DNA was identified by nested-PCR. In none was H. pylori DNA detected in both stomach and trachea.

Conclusion: (1) The presence of H. pylori organism in both trachea and stomach from infants with SIDS was not confirmed. (2) H. pylori failed to show an etiological role in this syndrome.