Common Sites for Gastric Ulcers

The most common site for gastric ulcers is the antrum, also known as Type I ulcer, which accounts for approximately 57% of all gastric ulcers. These ulcers typically occur at the junction between the gastric antrum and the gastric body mucosa—commonly referred to as the gastric angle. However, they can also develop along the lesser curvature of the stomach, from just below the esophagogastric junction (about 4 cm from the cardia) up to 2 cm before the pylorus. This area is not only a frequent location for ulcers but also a high-risk region for gastric cancer. Type I ulcers are generally associated with low gastric acid secretion.

Another classification includes:

Type II ulcers, or compound ulcers, account for about 22%. These involve both a gastric ulcer and a duodenal ulcer and are typically linked to high gastric acid output.

Type III ulcers, located in the pyloric canal, make up around 20% and are also associated with increased acid production.

Type IV ulcers, also known as cardiac ulcers, are less common and often found in individuals with blood type O. These ulcers tend to have low acid levels but carry a higher risk of complications such as bleeding and perforation.

Understanding the different types and locations of gastric ulcers can help guide diagnosis and treatment strategies, especially considering their association with acid secretion patterns and potential complications.