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