Helicobacter pylori infection reduces the efficacy of cancer immunotherapy: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

Background: Cancer immunotherapy has shown promising results in several tumors, but its efficacy is influenced by the immune state of the body. Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection can modulate the immune function of the body through various pathways, ultimately affecting the effectiveness of cancer immunotherapy. Aim: In this meta-analysis, we aimed to explore the association between H. pylori infection and the efficacy of cancer immunotherapy. Methods: We conducted a comprehensive search of PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials to identify relevant articles. We extracted and pooled the hazard ratio (HR) of the overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) by Review Manager 5.4. Results: Our analysis included four studies with a total of 263 participants. Compared to the control group, patients receiving cancer immunotherapy with H. pylori infection had a shorter OS (HR = 2.68, 95% CI: 2.00–4.11, p < 0.00001) and PFS (HR = 2.25, 95% CI: 1.66–3.60, p < 0.00001). Conclusion: Our meta-analysis suggested that H. pylori infection has a detrimental effect on cancer immunotherapy.