Peptic ulcer disease: clinically relevant causes and treatments.

Abstract

Peptic ulcer disease is a significant cause of morbidity and in certain cases mortality among affected individuals. Proper identification and treatment of peptic ulcer disease is imperative to decreasing its associated sequellae. The most common causes of peptic ulcer disease are the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and infection with Helicobacter pylori. Initial assessment of the patient with dyspepsia is paramount, as the presence of symptoms will dictate further management. With currently available treatment regimens and the ability to reduce gastrointestinal bleeding it is important for all clinicians to have knowledge of this disease, its diagnosis, and pharmacotherapy.