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Duodenal Ulcer
Pathophysiology
Duodenal ulcer result from damage or erosion of the protective lining of the duodenal
mucosa. Epithelial cells situated in the duodenum produce mucus as a defensive mechanism due
to epithelial irritation (Pietroiust, Gomez, & Luzzi, 2017). Once there is a physiologic imbalance
between aggressive factors and defensive mechanism; mucosal damage takes place. Injury to the
duodenum enhances H. Pylori growth and inflammation. H. Pylori impairs the ability of the
duodenal bulb to counteract the acidity entering from the stomach, causing an ulcer to develop.
Signs and symptoms
The client reports heartburn, nausea, vomiting, and feeling lightheaded.
Assessment and diagnostic findings
A physical examination may reveal a mild epigastric tenderness on palpation. Clients with a
perforated duodenal ulcer manifest with a severe, sharp abdominal pain. The client may also
present with rebound tenderness, rigidity and guarding during an abdominal examination. A
barium study may reveal an ulcer. This entails drinking barium containing substance as an x-ray
is taken; the barium makes it easy for the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) to be seen more clearly.
Endoscopy can be performed to expose lesions that were not observed during x-ray (Sung, Yung,
& Chiu, 2016). Through direct endoscopy visualization of ulcers and lesions is achieved, and a
suspicious lesion can be obtained by biopsy. H. pylori may be confirmed through a breath test
that detects the bacteria or serological test for antibodies produced as a result of H. pylori
antigen.

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Pathophysiology Assignment 2022

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