The endoscopy revealed that Harold had a peptic ulcer. Analysis of a tissue sample taken from the site showed that Harold also had an infection that was caused by Helicobacter pylori bacteria. The doctor who performed the endoscopy gave Harold prescriptions for two different antibiotics and a medication that would decrease the secretion of stomach acid. The doctor also instructed Harold to schedule an appointment for another endoscopy procedure in 6 months. Case Background A peptic ulcer is a sore that occurs in the lining of a part of the gastrointestinal tract that is exposed to pepsin and acid secretions.
Most peptic ulcers occur in the lining of the stomach or duodenum.
There is still some question as to how H. pylori is spread. However, H. pylori has been identified in the saliva of infected individuals and may be spread via this fluid. H. pylori bacteria have the ability to survive the acid environment in the stomach because they produce enzymes that neutralize stomach acids. They also have the ability to move through the mucous membrane lining the stomach or duodenum and take up residence in the underlying connective tissue. The damage to the mucous membrane that results from a H. pylori infection allows pepsin and hydrochloric acid to further damage the wall of the stomach or duodenum.