Final answer:
Helicobacter pylori infection is a risk factor for gastritis and can lead to chronic inflammation of the gastric epithelium, ulcers, and stomach cancer. It survives in the stomach by neutralizing the acidic environment, damaging the mucosal barrier and leading to ulcers which require antibiotics and medication for treatment.
Step-by-step explanation:
The infection and penetration of the mucosal gel layer by the gram-negative bacterium Helicobacter pylori are risk factors for gastritis. Helicobacter pylori are able to survive the acid environment of the human stomach by producing urease and other enzymes that neutralize the stomach acids, enabling it to colonize the gastric epithelium. This colonization damages the stomach lining and can lead to chronic inflammation, known as gastritis, and also increases the risk of developing stomach ulcers and stomach cancer.
Helicobacter pylori infection causes a breakdown of the protective mucosal barrier, leading to the vulnerability of the gastric epithelium to stomach acids, which is the primary factor in ulcer formation. Diagnosis of peptic ulcers is often indicated by the presence of Helicobacter pylori and can include endoscopy for direct visualization. Treatment typically involves a combination of antibiotics to clear the infection and medication to reduce stomach acid and aid in healing.