The role of Helicobacter pylori in the pathogenesis of peptic ulcer disease, gastritis and gastric malignancy is an area of intense investigation. The epidemiology of H. pylori suggests that the initial infection may occur in childhood. Although there is a strong association between H. pylori infection and peptic ulcer disease in children, the importance of H. pylori in the production of non-specific recurrent abdominal pain and the appropriate approach to therapy remain controversial.