fekély

Fekély is a medical term that refers to a lesion characterized by a break in the mucosal lining. The term is commonly used to describe ulcers of the gastrointestinal tract, especially gastric ulcers and duodenal ulcers.

Causes and risk factors: The most frequent causes are infection with Helicobacter pylori and the long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Other factors include stress-related ulcers in severely ill patients, ischemia, Crohn's disease, gastritis, and less commonly malignancy.

Clinical features and diagnosis: Ulcers commonly cause epigastric pain, which may be described as burning or gnawing; pain patterns can differ between gastric and duodenal ulcers. Symptoms may be accompanied by nausea, fullness, or belching. Signs of bleeding such as hematemesis or melena can occur. Diagnosis is typically via upper endoscopy with biopsy to assess healing and to test for H. pylori, using biopsy-based tests, the urea breath test, or stool antigen testing; imaging may be used if perforation or obstruction is suspected.

Treatment: Goals are eradicating H. pylori when present, reducing stomach acid with proton pump inhibitors, and eliminating NSAID use if possible. Standard H. pylori eradication regimens combine a PPI with two antibiotics for 7–14 days. Additional measures include lifestyle modifications and, in certain cases, surgical intervention for complications.

Prognosis and complications: Most ulcers heal with appropriate therapy, but recurrence is common. Complications include gastrointestinal bleeding, perforation, and gastric outlet obstruction. Early diagnosis and treatment improve outcomes.

Etymology and usage: The word fekély is used in Hungarian and Turkish medical terminology to denote ulcer and broadly corresponds to the English term ulcer.