Peptic ulcer disease
Abstract
A peptic ulcer is an erosion in part of the mucosal lining of the stomach (gastric ulcer) or the first few centimetres of the duodenum (duodenal ulcer).
The epithelial cells of the stomach and duodenum protect the gastrointestinal (GI) mucosa from stomach acid and digestive enzymes by secreting a protective mucous layer. Other cells secrete bicarbonate, which neutralises acid near the GI mucosa. In the event of acid and pepsin entering the epithelial layer, there are additional mechanisms in place to reduce mucosal damage.
Under normal conditions, a balance exists between gastric acid secretion and mucosal protection of the stomach and duodenum. However, if the mucosal protection breaks down, the digestive juices and stomach acid can erode the GI mucosa and an ulcer may form.
The epithelial cells of the stomach and duodenum protect the gastrointestinal (GI) mucosa from stomach acid and digestive enzymes by secreting a protective mucous layer. Other cells secrete bicarbonate, which neutralises acid near the GI mucosa. In the event of acid and pepsin entering the epithelial layer, there are additional mechanisms in place to reduce mucosal damage.
Under normal conditions, a balance exists between gastric acid secretion and mucosal protection of the stomach and duodenum. However, if the mucosal protection breaks down, the digestive juices and stomach acid can erode the GI mucosa and an ulcer may form.