Stomach: Peptic ulcer Flashcards
(91 cards)
What is the definition of erosion in gastric or duodenal mucosa?
Erosion in gastric or duodenal mucosa that extends through muscularis mucosa
This definition pertains to the structural damage caused by peptic ulcers.
What is the lifetime risk of developing peptic ulcers for men and women?
Approximately 10% for men and 4% for women
What is the trend in the incidence of peptic ulcers over time?
Reducing incidence over time due to reduction in H.pylori infection
The decline in H. pylori infections is linked to improved sanitation and antibiotic use.
What are the common risk factors for peptic ulcers?
- H. pylori (80-95% DU, 75% GU)
- NSAID
- Cigarette smoking
What are less common risk factors for peptic ulcers?
- Zollinger-Ellison syndrome
- Steroids
- Critical illness
- Illicit drugs (crack cocaine, methamphetamine)
- Alcohol
- Marginal ulcer post bypass
These factors may contribute to ulcer development but are not as prevalent as the common ones.
What regulates acid production in the stomach?
Acid released from parietal cells in response to histamine, gastrin, and vagal stimulation
This regulation is crucial for maintaining stomach acidity and digestive function.
What stimulates the release of pepsin from chief cells?
Cholinergic stimuli and gastrin
Pepsin is essential for protein digestion in the stomach.
What is the role of bicarbonate in mucosal defense?
Bicarbonate continuously released from epithelium forming barrier across mucous layer to attack acid
This neutralization helps protect the gastric lining from acidic damage.
What does the mucous layer protect against?
- Pepsin
- Acid diffusion
- Bacteria
What occurs when the balance between peptic acid secretion and gastroduodenal mucosal defense is disrupted?
Ulceration occurs when balance disrupted
Fill in the blank: Ulceration can occur with increased acid or decreased _______.
defence
This highlights the importance of both acid production and mucosal protection in ulcer formation.
What is the scientific name for H. pylori?
Helicobacter pylori
Commonly referred to as H. pylori.
Describe the shape and characteristics of Helicobacter pylori.
Spiral/helical gram negative rod with 4-6 flagella
Where can Helicobacter pylori be found in the human body?
Only in gastric mucosa and heterotopic gastric mucosa
Includes Barrett’s esophagus, gastric metaplasia in duodenum, Meckel’s diverticulum, and rectal heterotopic gastric mucosa.
What enzyme does H. pylori produce, and what is its function?
Urease enzyme that breaks down urea into ammonia and bicarbonate
This creates an alkaline microenvironment for its survival.
What are the proposed mechanisms of GI injury caused by H. pylori?
Damages mucosal barrier, produces toxic products, induces local inflammatory reaction, hyper-acid secretion, increased gastrin levels
Includes ammonia, cytotoxins, mucinase, phospholipase, and platelet activating factor.
What effect does H. pylori have on gastrin levels?
Increases gastrin levels, leading to increased gastric acid production
This is presumably due to reduction in antral D cells.
What condition allows H. pylori to colonize the duodenum?
Gastric metaplasia in the duodenum
This can lead to duodenitis and ulcer formation.
What is the mechanism of action of NSAIDs regarding COX enzymes?
Inhibit cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, inhibiting prostaglandin production
Prostaglandins promote gastric and duodenal mucosal protection.
What functions do prostaglandins serve in the gastrointestinal tract?
Promote gastric and duodenal mucosal protection, increase mucin and bicarbonate production, increase blood flow to mucosa
Essential for maintaining mucosal integrity.
What is the effect of NSAIDs on the risk of GI bleeding?
Increase risk of GI bleeding
Particularly in high-risk patients.
Who are considered high-risk patients for GI bleeding when using NSAIDs?
> 60 years old, prior GI bleed, concurrent use of steroids or anticoagulants
These factors significantly elevate the risk.
What are some complications of peptic ulcers?
- Bleeding
- Perforation
- Obstruction (gastric outlet)
What do blood tests typically show in patients with ulcers?
Generally normal; may show iron deficiency anaemia