ulceration

Question 1

definition

Answer 1

Definition: A break or erosion in the mucosal lining of the stomach or duodenum, often caused by excess stomach acid, Helicobacter pylori infection, or NSAID use.

Results in the formation of a sore that can cause pain, bleeding, or more severe complications like perforation or obstruction.

Question 2

1. Common Causes/Pathogens

Answer 2

• Helicobacter pylori infection
• NSAID or aspirin use
• Smoking
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• Stress
• Zollinger-Ellison syndrome (rare) - gastrin producing tumours

gastrin - stimulates stomach acid production

Question 3

2. Risk Factors and Epidemiology

Answer 3

• Age (more common in adults > 50)
• Chronic use of NSAIDs
• Smoking and alcohol abuse
• Family history of ulcers
• More common in developing countries
• Increased risk with H. pylori infection

Question 4

3. Diagnosis

Answer 4

• Endoscopy (for visual diagnosis)
• H. pylori testing (urea breath test, stool antigen test)

Question 5

treatment

Answer 5

• Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs)
• Antibiotics for H. pylori infection
• Antacids and H2 blockers (reduce gastric acid being made)
• Surgery for severe complications (e.g., perforation

Question 6

4. Public Health Aspects

Answer 6

• Prevalence linked to H. pylori infection (especially in low-income countries)
• Health education on safe NSAID use and smoking cessation
• Early detection through screening in high-risk populations
  Preventive measures: Treating H. pylori and managing lifestyle factors