Multiple Ulcers of the Duodenal Bulb (2 of 2)

Duodenal Ulcer and Pseudo Diverticulae. H pylori H pylori are small, microaerophilic, spiral-shaped, gram-negative rods. The presence of H pylori in the stomach and duodenum probably is the most common bacterial infection in the world. H pylori infection is generally regarded as the most important etiologic factor in the development of DU. Most authors regard H pylori as the cause of 85-95% of DUs. H pylori can be cultured from up to 95% of DUs. Moreover, areas with a higher prevalence of H pylori infection have a higher incidence of DU. Several mechanisms exist by which the bacterium can induce duodenal mucosal damage. All evidence supports the assertion that H pylori is the major cause of DU. However, the risk of developing a DU in an individual infected with H pylori is only about 1% per year, and only 10-15% of individuals with H pylori infection develop a DU at any point in life. Therefore, other pathogenic factors must function either independently or in concert with H pylori to produce DUs.