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Gastric ulcer

Definition:
A gastric ulcer is a break in the normal tissue lining the stomach. See also duodenal ulcer, which is a break in the normal tissue lining the duodenum (the first part of the small bowel).

Alternative Names:
Ulcer - stomach; Peptic disease; Stomach ulcer

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Benign gastric ulcers are caused by an imbalance between the secretion of acid and an enzyme called pepsin and the defenses of the stomach mucosal lining. This leads to inflammation and may be precipitated by aspirin and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) such as ibruprofen.

Risk factors for benign gastric ulcers include the following:

  • use of aspirin and NSAID
  • Helicobacter pylori infection
  • Chronic gastritis
  • Smoking
  • Increasing age.

Stress does not cause or worsen gastric ulcers.



Review Date: 11/7/2002
Reviewed By: Jenifer K. Lehrer, M.D., Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate Hospital, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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