Case Histories

Immune System and Genomics

A woman in her early 40s with severe upper GI tract distress was prescribed Prilosec (20 mg daily); the drug decreased the severity of the symptoms but the condition was not resolved.

A functional genomic test was performed evaluating modifiable genes associated with the immune system. Upper GI tract distress has been associated with SNPs (single nucleotide polymorphisms) on genes that code for pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1B, IL-4, IL-6 and IL-13). In this case, SNPs were found on IL-1B (heterozygous) and IL-6 (homozygous), indicating a greater propensity for Helicobacter pylori infection, gastric ulcers and gastric cancer. This information was communicated to her physician.

Helicobacter pylorus was then investigated and identified by her physician and a regimen of three antibiotics was given. To date, 6 months after the antibiotic treatment, all signs and symptoms are gone. In addition, her insurance company saved the cost of a monthly Prilosec prescription and she feels that she may have avoided a gastric ulcer or even gastric cancer.

References:

Interleukin 1 polymorphisms, lifestyle factors and Helicobacter pylori infection.
Hamajima, N, K Matsuo, T Saito, K Tajima, K Okuma, K Yamao and S Tominaga.
Japan Journal of Cancer Research 92: 383-389 (2001).