[Clinical features of peptic ulcer disease in the elderly]

Peptic ulcer disease in the elderly is considered to be more serious disorder than that in younger patients because of the presence of more risk factors and complications. Bleeding and perforation are the most frequent ulcer complications. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs(NSAIDs)-induced ulcer is more prevalent, and atypical symptoms often lead to a delay in diagnosis and treatment in the elderly patients. These two factors may contribute to the greater mortality in the elderly. The treatment is directed toward gastric acid suppression in combination with elimination of causative factors such as H. pylori infection or NSAIDs, and the control for comorbid medical conditions. It is important to avoid unnecessary medications and clinicians should pay attention to drug interactions, especially some kinds of H2 receptor antagonists.