Shifting Causes of Peptic Ulcer Disease

An observational study supports prior findings of less PUD attributed to H. pylori infection and more attributed to use of NSAIDs, particularly aspirin.

The main causes of peptic ulcer disease (PUD) are Helicobacter pylori infection and use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), including low-dose aspirin (LDA). As the prevalence of H. pylori decreases in developed countries, the percentage of PUD attributable to NSAIDs or other (often idiopathic) causes is increasing.

To further investigate this trend, researchers identified patients with PUD diagnosed by endoscopy between 2005 and 2010 at a tertiary referral hospital in the U.K. They collected data on their pre-endoscopy use of NSAIDs and LDA (≤325 mg/day) via patient interviews and hospital records. H. pylori infection status was determined from biopsy testing, if available, or serology testing.

Of 386 patients with PUD, 220 (57…

Reviewing Author

David J. Bjorkman, MD, MSPH (HSA), SM (Epid.)

Disclosures

Nothing to disclose

David J. Bjorkman, MD, MSPH (HSA), SM (Epid.)

Disclosures

Nothing to disclose

Shifting Causes of Peptic Ulcer Disease

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Reviewing Author