A major causative organism responsible for peptic ulcer is

Appeared in: UPPSC 2017

Explanation

Helicobacter pylori is a gram-negative bacterium that is the primary cause of most peptic ulcers, infecting about 90% of duodenal ulcer patients and 70% of gastric ulcer patients.
It survives in the stomach's acidic environment by producing an enzyme called urease, which generates ammonia to neutralize the acid around it.
The bacterium burrows into the protective mucosal lining of the stomach, causing chronic inflammation and tissue damage that leads to ulcer formation.

Option A: Escherichia coli is a common inhabitant of the intestines and a frequent cause of urinary tract infections and gastroenteritis (diarrhea), not peptic ulcers.
Option B: This group of bacteria is typically responsible for infections like strep throat (pharyngitis), scarlet fever, and skin infections (impetigo).
Option D: This bacterium, particularly Staphylococcus aureus, is a leading cause of skin and soft tissue infections (like boils), pneumonia, and food poisoning. It does not cause peptic ulcers.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Etiology of Peptic Ulcer Disease as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Nurses play a key role in educating patients about H. pylori eradication therapy, which typically involves a combination of antibiotics and a proton pump inhibitor (PPI).
It is crucial to emphasize medication adherence, as incomplete treatment can lead to antibiotic resistance and ulcer recurrence.
Chronic H. pylori infection is a major risk factor for developing gastric cancer, making its diagnosis and treatment a critical public health intervention.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key terms in the question: "major causative organism" and "peptic ulcer".
Recognize this as a factual recall question that requires specific knowledge of common pathogens and the diseases they cause.
Mentally review the common causes of gastrointestinal diseases.
Evaluate each option based on its typical site of infection: E. coli (intestine, urinary tract), Streptococci (throat, skin), and Staphylococci (skin, lungs).
Recall the unique and well-established link between Helicobacter pylori and its ability to survive in the stomach, making it the primary infectious cause of peptic ulcers.
Select the option that correctly matches the pathogen to the specific disease mentioned.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Nursing Brunner Adult Health 3SA Vol 1 Part 2 p. 141-143

E6 Medicine Davidson Principles Practice 24e p. 818-820

E6 Physiology Guyton 4SAE Part 2A p. 169-171

Practise the full UPPSC 2017

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.