gastric ulcer

gastric ulcer A hole in the lining of the stomach that is caused by the acidic digestive juices secreted by the stomach cells. Ulcer formation is related to infection with H. pylori bacteria in the stomach, the use of anti-inflammatory medications, and cigarette smoking. Ulcer pain may not correlate with the presence or severity of ulceration. Diagnosis is made via barium X-ray endoscopy. See also Helicobacter pylori.