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Medical Definition of Oesophageal ulcer
1. A hole in the lining of the oesophagus corroded by the acidic digestive juices secreted by the stomach cells. Ulcer formation is related to H. Pyloridus bacteria in the stomach, anti-inflammatory medications, and smoking cigarettes. Ulcer pain may not correlate with the presence or severity of ulceration. Diagnosis is made with barium X-ray or endoscopy. Complications of ulcers include bleeding and perforation. Treatment involves antibiotics to eradicate H. Pyloridus, eliminating risk factors, and preventing complications. (12 Dec 1998)