21st March 2022

A 71-year-old patient presents to his GP after some stomach pains for the last month

A 71-year-old patient presents to his GP after some stomach pains for the last month that have been increasingly more painful. He has been able to eat and drink as normal and has not vomited from the pains. He describes the pain as a sharp, stabbing pain in his epigastrium that is fluctuant, and particularly painful in the postprandial period. He is also feeling more fatigued than usual.

History of note is osteoarthritis in his left knee, and a total knee replacement for his right knee. He has hypertension, hypercholesterolaemia, and is overweight.

It is suspected that he has a stomach ulcer.

The use of NSAIDs is linked to development of stomach ulcers and GI bleeds, what is the pathophysiology of this?

Select the SINGLE most appropriate option from the list below. Select ONE option only.