Perforated peptic ulcer
Perforated Peptic Ulcer
A Perforated Peptic Ulcer (pronounced: per-foh-ray-ted pep-tik ul-ser) is a severe complication of a peptic ulcer, which is a sore that forms on the lining of the stomach, upper part of the small intestine, or esophagus.
Etymology
The term "Perforated Peptic Ulcer" is derived from the Latin word "perforare" which means to pierce through, and the Greek word "peptikos" which means to digest. The term "ulcer" is derived from the Latin word "ulcus" which means sore.
Definition
A Perforated Peptic Ulcer is a condition where an untreated peptic ulcer erodes through the wall of the stomach or duodenum, causing a hole (perforation) that allows the contents of the stomach or duodenum to leak into the abdominal cavity. This is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment.
Symptoms
Symptoms of a Perforated Peptic Ulcer may include severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, bloating, and fever. In some cases, the person may also experience shock due to infection or sepsis.
Causes
The most common causes of a Perforated Peptic Ulcer are Helicobacter pylori infection and long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as aspirin and ibuprofen.
Treatment
Treatment for a Perforated Peptic Ulcer usually involves surgery to repair the perforation, along with medications to reduce stomach acid and treat any infection.
Related Terms
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