Gastroduodenal Ulceration in Small Animals: Part 1. Pathophysiology and Epidemiology.

Gastroduodenal ulceration in small animals is a complex and important comorbidity that occurs when the physiological homeostasis of the gastrointestinal tract is disrupted secondary to administration of medications or the presence of local or systemic diseases. The aim of this article is to provide a comprehensive review of the veterinary literature regarding the pathophysiology, epidemiology, and risk factors associated with gastroduodenal ulceration in small animals. Pertinent concepts from the human literature will be integrated into the discussion. This article serves as an introduction to the second part of this series, which will review current evidence regarding the use of H2-receptor antagonists and proton pump inhibitors in small animals.