Association between helicobacter pylori seropositivity and Reinke’s edema: a case-control study

Background Reinke’s oedema (RE) is a chronic laryngeal condition linked to irritants. While smoking is a primary factor, the role of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) remains debated. Objective To explore the potential association between H. pylori seropositivity and Reinke’s oedema. Methods A case-control study was conducted with 52 participants (26 cases with RE; 26 controls). All underwent a comprehensive voice assessment and H. pylori IgG serology. Results H. pylori seropositivity was significantly higher in the RE group (69.2%) compared to controls (19.2%, P < 0.001). After adjusting for smoking and voice abuse, H. pylori infection was associated with a 6.03-fold increase in the odds of RE. Conclusion H. pylori seropositivity is strongly associated with Reinke’s oedema, suggesting a potential role for reflux-mediated inflammatory damage in its pathogenesis.