Psychosocial stress and duodenal peptic ulcer: A bio-psycho-social perspective

A model is proposed to describe the process of development of duodenal pept ic ulcer, centered on the influence of psycho-social stress, and the role p layed by the biological, psychological and social systems. The contribution of stressful life events and perceived stress, is presented. Coping strate gies and their influence are then described. Stress can convert the bacteri um H. Pylori in a pathogenic factor, increacing peptic acid activity and di minishing the membrane defenses. Finally, the article indicates the relatio nships between duodenal peptic ulcer and social parameters.