Gastric ulcer (stomach ulcer), a common form of peptic ulcer disease, is an ulceration occurring in the lining of the gastric mucosal membrane caused by stomach acid damage to the digestive tract. Prevalence is similar across men and women, with a slightly higher incidence in men. There is an increase in incidence and mortality with age.

Seventy percent of peptic ulcers are asymptomatic, and 60% of peptic ulcers heal spontaneously.

Gastric ulcers can be associated with Helicobacter pylori infection or ingestion of NSAIDs. Other risk factors include smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, steroids, and high-salt diet. Less common etiologies include ischemia in the setting of severe burns (Curling ulcer) and uncontrolled activation of parietal cells due to vagal stimulation via elevated intracranial pressure (Cushing ulcer).

Gastric ulcers may lead to hemorrhage, perforation, infection, or scar tissue if left untreated.