PROFILE OF PEPTIC ULCER DISEASE IN THE ELDERLY

Abstract

BackgroundPeptic ulcer disease has protean manifestations in various age groupsAimTo compare the clinical presentation and outcome of peptic ulcer disease in the elderly ( >60 year) with age group less than 60 years.MethodsThis was a single center prospective study. The study subjects comprised of patients of peptic ulcer disease divided into 2 groups: ,<60 year and > 60 year. A total of 40 patient of endoscopically proven peptic ulcer were included with 20 patient in each age group. Detection of Helicobacter pylori was done by C14 urea breath test (UBT) and rapid urease test (RUT). Eradication therapy for Hp was given to patients who were either RUT or UBT positive. At the end of 6 weeks after completion of eradication regime endoscopy was repeated to look for ulcer healing and Hp eradication. A repeat endoscopy at 6 months was done for checking recurrence of ulcer or Hp.ResultsConclusionsThere is no increases prevalence of gastric ulcer in the elderly. Ina elderly, peptic ulcer disease presents more often with bleeding. There are no significant differences in eradication and recurrence rates of H. pylori in elderly as compared to the younger age group.