Peptic Ulcer Glossary

Bacteria: Bacteria are microscopic organisms, made up of a single cell that has no distinct nucleus. Bacteria reproduce by fission or by forming spores.

Urease: Urease is an enzyme that breaks the carbon-nitrogen bond of amides to form carbon dioxide, ammonia, and water. When urea is broken down, ammonia is released and the pH of the medium increases (becomes more basic). This pH change is detected by a pH indicator that turns pink in a basic environment. Appearance of pink colour indicates a positive test for urease.

Arthritis: Arthritis, is caused by inflammation and swelling of the cartilage and lining of the joints, generally accompanied by an increase in the fluid in the joints.

Mucosa associated lymphoid tissue (MALT): Mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) is scattered along mucosal linings and protects the body from antigens entering along mucosal surfaces.

Autoimmune disease: When the immune system mistakes self tissues (self antigens) as foreign antigen (non self) and results in an inappropriate immune response it results in an autoimmune disease.

Gastroenterologist: A physician who is specialized in digestive diseases.

Endoscope: A device which has a light attached to it and is used to look inside a body cavity or organ. The endoscope is inserted through a natural opening, like mouth, rectum or vagina. A medical procedure using any type of endoscope is called endoscopy.

Published on Sep 10, 2014
Last Updated on Sep 10, 2014