An upper GI should be done if history consistent with gastric ulcer. All lesions found by radiography should be biopsied to rule out gastric carcinoma. Several samples should be taken of each ulcer as well as brushings for cytologic examination. Same as for duodenal ulcers. Resolution of symptoms and healing of ulcer with treatment do not ensure that it is not a carcinoma.
All gastric ulcers require biopsy.
They are potent cyclo-oxygenase inhibitors and prevent the gastric synthesis of prostaglandins, which are necessary for the production of gastric protective mucus and bicarbonate. Those with symptoms frequently do not have ulcers and those without symptoms frequently do. Stop offending drug and use acetaminophen for pain control if possible. The first two are much less expensive. However, misoprostol does not reliably prevent duodenal ulcers.