Which type of ulcer is most commonly associated with H. pylori infection?

Duodenal ulcers are most commonly associated with H. pylori infection due to the bacteria's ability to disrupt the protective mucosal barrier of the gastrointestinal tract. H. pylori can lead to chronic inflammation, known as gastritis, which increases gastric acid secretion. This heightened acidity can weaken the protective factors of the duodenum and contribute to the formation of ulcers.

The link between H. pylori and duodenal ulcers is particularly significant because these ulcers tend to occur in the presence of increased gastric acid levels, which H. pylori promotes. Over time, the ongoing inflammation from the infection leads to damage to the duodenal lining, resulting in ulceration.

Other types of ulcers mentioned, such as stress, gastric, and incisional ulcers, are associated with different mechanisms and risk factors. Stress ulcers are often related to acute physiological stress, gastric ulcers may develop due to various factors including NSAID use, and incisional ulcers are typically post-surgical complications. Although H. pylori can be present in gastric ulcers, the stronger association with duodenal ulcers highlights the specific pathophysiological processes involved in this condition.