Ulcer

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]

Synonyms and keywords: ulceration

An ulcer is a discontinuity or break in a bodily membrane that impedes the organ of which that membrane is a part from continuing its normal functions. Common forms of ulcers recognized in medicine include:

* Ulcer (dermatology), a discontinuity of the skin or a break in the skin
* Pressure ulcers, also known as bedsores
* Genital ulcer, an ulcer located on the genital area
* Ulcerative dermatitis, a skin disorder associated with bacterial growth often initiated by self-trauma
* Corneal ulcer, an inflammatory or infective condition of the cornea
* Coronary artery ulceration, defined as a cavity in the vessel wall with disruption of the intima and flow observed within the plaque cavity
* Mouth ulcer, an open sore inside the mouth
* Aphthous ulcer, a specific type of oral ulcer also known as a canker sore
* Peptic ulcer, a discontinuity of the gastrointestinal mucosa (stomach ulcer)
* Venous ulcer, a wound thought to occur due to improper functioning of valves in the veins
* Stress ulcer, located anywhere within the stomach and proximal duodenum
* Ulcerative sarcoidosis, a cutaneous condition affecting people with sarcoidosis
* Ulcerative lichen planus, a rare variant of lichen planus
* Ulcerative colitis, a form of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
* Ulcerative disposition, a disorder or discomfort that causes severe abdominal distress, often associated with chronic gastritis
* Medication: diclofenac (patch)