Serum Leptin Level in Patients with Duodenal Ulcer

Abstract

Background: Leptin and its receptors have been found in the human gastric mucosa. Its secretion by gastric mucosa has generated interest in its probable role in the gastrointestinal tract and pathophysiology of diseases. Objective: To determine any possible correlation between serum leptin level and pathological findings in patients with duodenal ulcer (DU). Methods: In a cross-sectional study, 22 patients diagnosed as DU were randomly selected and compared with 22 healthy controls. From each participant a fasting blood sample for measurement of serum leptin level and anti-H pylori antibody IgG was taken. Two antral biopsies for evaluating the intensity of gastritis and H. pylori infection were also taken from patients with DU. Results: Compared to the control group, serum leptin level was significantly (p<0.05) higher in patients with DU. Leptin level also significantly (p<0.05) correlated with the presence of gastritis and H. pylori infection. Conclusion: An increase in serum leptin in patients with DU may be a defense mechanism. There is a possibility that leptin accelerates ulcer healing.