Endoscopic pattern of peptic ulcer disease: a study of 1633 patients in Iraq

ABSTRACT

In a prospective study of 1633 patients of peptic ulcer disease, studied by endoscopy, various forms of chronic duodenal lesions accounted for 75% of the cases. Based on endoscopic and biopsy findings in symptomatic patients, it is suggested that duodenitis is a true entity. There was a significant difference in the incidence ratio of chronic D.U. to chronic G.U. of 11 / 1. Two types of acute gastroduodenal erosions were recognized, linear ulcers and aphthous ulcers, the latter often concommittant with oral aphthae but not associated with G.l. bleeding. G.l. bleeding occurred in 221 patients [13.5%] and was the presenting feature in 80% of them. However, there was a significant higher tendency of bleeding in acute erosions than other forms of peptic ulcer disease [p < 0-01]. Again, Bleeding due to drugs was more likely due to acute rather than chronic ulcer disease [p <0-01]. Endoscopy proved a most valuable and safe diagnostic procedure, radiology being helpful in 60% of cases only and. it is recommended as a routine procedure for diagnosis and planning of treatment