- Helicobacter pylori - Peptic ulcers

Peptic ulcers
Reviewed by Dr Stephen C P Collins, GP
What is an ulcer?
An ulcer is damage to the inner lining (the mucosa) of the stomach or the upper part of the intestine (duodenum). A bacterium, Helicobacter pylori, is the main cause of ulcers in this area.
Why do people get ulcers?
The most common cause is infection with Helicobacter pylori bacteria.

http://www.netdoctor.co.uk/diseases/facts/pepticulcer.htm



Helicobacter pylori
General Information
Helicobacter pylori is a spiral shaped bacterium that lives in the stomach and duodenum (section of intestine just below stomach). It has a unique way of adapting in the harsh environment of the stomach.

The inside of the stomach is bathed in about half a gallon of gastric juice every day. Gastric juice is composed of digestive enzymes and concentrated hydrochloric acid, which can readily tear apart the toughest food or microorganism. Bacteria, viruses, and yesterdays steak dinner are all consumed in this deadly bath of chemicals. It used to be thought that the stomach contained no bacteria and was actually sterile, but Helicobacter pylori changed that.

Testing

http://www.helico.com/
http://www.netdoctor.co.uk/diseases/facts/pepticulcer.htm