Abstract:
Background. Gastroduodenal ulcer in elderly patients is favored by an imbalance between
aggressive and protective mucosal factors, senescence of the digestive tract, polypharmacy,
and comorbidities. It presents atypically, carries a risk of complications, and requires
individualized treatment to prevent them.
Objective(s). Analysis of scientific data on the clinical and evolutionary characteristics of
gastroduodenal ulcer in elderly patients, with the aim of establishing a timely diagnosis.
Materials and methods. Medical specialty publications and articles containing data on the
symptomatology and evolution of gastroduodenal ulcer in elderly patients were analyzed,
using electronic resources such as Scopus, Google Scholar, PubMed, and the Scientific
Medical Library of “N. Testemițanu” State University of Medicine and Pharmacy, published
between 2015-2025.
Results. Senescence of the digestive tract, the presence of comorbidities, and the frequent
use of NSAIDs significantly influence the etiopathogenesis and clinical course of
gastroduodenal ulcer in elderly patients. The clinical presentation is often atypical, with mild
or even absent pain, yet frequently associated with a severe progression of the disease.
Ulcerative lesions are predominantly located on the lesser curvature and are associated with
a high risk of complications, most commonly hemorrhage. Recognizing the specific clinical
features of gastroduodenal ulcer in elderly patients is essential for the prevention of
complications.
Conclusion(s). Gastroduodenal ulcer in elderly patients typically progresses with a mildly
expressed pain syndrome, absence of pain periodicity and seasonal exacerbations, and often
presents only with dyspeptic symptoms. Ulcerative lesions are large, heal slowly, and carry
a high risk of severe complications.
