[Refractory peptic ulcer: the pathogenic mechanisms]

The vast majority of peptic ulcers heal after treatment with either H2 receptor antagonists or omeprazole at standard doses. However, it is also recognized that a 5-10% of peptic ulcers will not heal. The possibility of identifying the factors associated with refractory ulcers would have important repercussions. Several retrospective and prospective studies have pointed out a number of clinical, environmental or intrinsic factors. In recent years 2 factors have emerged as the main cause of peptic ulcer. Helicobacter pylori infection and NSAID use, and these two factors might be involved in the pathogenesis of refractory ulcer.