What is a common feature of Curling's ulcer?

Curling's ulcer is characterized by its development in the setting of significant physiological stress, often related to severe burns or trauma. One of the common features associated with this type of ulcer is reduced plasma volume, which can occur due to the loss of fluids and electrolytes after extensive burns. This leads to several complications, including decreased blood flow to the gastrointestinal tract and a compensatory increase in gastric acid secretion.

As a result, the mucosal barrier of the stomach becomes vulnerable to the erosive effects of the gastric acid, contributing to ulcer formation. This mechanism is particularly important in understanding why patients under extreme physical stress, such as those with severe burns, may develop Curling's ulcers.

In contrast, increased gastric acid secretion alone does not fully encapsulate the etiology or common characteristics of Curling's ulcers since these ulcers primarily arise in the context of reduced plasma volume and compromised mucosal integrity. Chronic gastritis and stomach cancer are unrelated to the acute stress-induced nature of Curling's ulcers.

Thus, recognizing the relationship between reduced plasma volume and the risk of developing Curling's ulcers helps clarify why this feature is commonly associated with this condition.