Peptic ulcer, site unspecified

Peptic ulcer is defined as a distinct breach in the mucosa of the gastrointestinal tract as a result of caustic effects of acid and pepsin in the lumen. A peptic ulcer may develop in any part of the gastrointestinal tract exposed to acid and pepsin. The most common locations are the stomach and duodenal bulb, but peptic ulcer may also develop in the oesophagus in gastro-oesophageal reflux diseases, and in the distal ileum as a result of a Meckel’s diverticulum lined with heterotopic gastric mucosa.