Helicobacter pylori eradication using laser endoscope and methylene blue

Background and Aims: Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) eradication has become increasingly unsuccessful due to the prevalence of antibiotic resistance. To address this global issue, a novel strategy for eradication without antibiotics must be developed. The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of methylene blue (MB) with sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3) on H. pylori using photodynamic antimicrobial chemotherapy. Materials and Methods: MB was basified using NaHCO3. The basic effect of MB with NaHCO3 was examined using an endoscope equipped with a laser light source. H. pylori was smeared on the culture media with basic MB, followed by illumination at approximately 1,100 lux for 10 and 20 seconds. After 4 days of culture, the basic effects were determined according to the bacterial growth. Results: The basic effects of MB appeared at a pH from 8.6 to 9.0 and at NaHCO3 concentrations between 2% and 6.5%. MB concentrations of > 0.05% exhibited the basic effects. The duration of irradiation had no remarkable effects. Conclusions: Our results showed that the laser endoscope and basic MB were effective for H. pylori eradication.