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Duodenal ulcer   

Overview | Symptoms | Treatment | Prevention

Alternative names:

Peptic ulcer; Ulcer - peptic; Ulcer - duodenal

Definition:

An erosion in the lining of the duodenum (first part of the small intestine, connecting to the stomach). See also gastric ulcer; benign.

Causes and Risks

A duodenal ulcer is a type of peptic disease that is caused by an imbalance between acid and pepsin (an enzyme) secretion and the defenses of the mucosal lining. The inflammation may be precipitated by aspirin and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs).

Duodenal ulcers are commonly associated with the presence of the bacteria Helicobacter pylori in the stomach.  Risk factors are aspirin and NSAID use, cigarette smoking, and older age. Duodenal ulcer has historically occurred more frequently in men, but more recent data suggest similar rates in both men and women. The lifetime prevalence of a peptic ulcer 5 to 10% and approaches 10 to 20% in patients who are Helicobacter pylori positive.

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