What is the primary infection associated with most duodenal and peptic ulcers?

The primary infection associated with most duodenal and peptic ulcers is Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori). This bacterium is known to colonize the gastric epithelium and is intricately linked to the pathogenesis of peptic ulcers due to its ability to disrupt the mucosal barrier and lead to gastric inflammation (chronic gastritis). H. pylori can survive in the acidic environment of the stomach and causes damage to the gastric lining, which results in ulceration.

The presence of H. pylori is a major risk factor for the development of both gastric and duodenal ulcers. Treatment typically involves a combination of antibiotics and proton pump inhibitors to eradicate the infection and aid in healing the ulcer.

The other options mentioned do not have a significant association with the formation of duodenal and peptic ulcers. Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is linked to ulcers primarily in immunocompromised patients, herpes simplex virus (HSV) can cause esophageal ulcers, and Clostridium difficile is generally associated with antibiotic-associated diarrhea and colitis rather than peptic ulcer disease. Thus, the connection of H. pylori with peptic ulcers is well-documented in clinical literature, making it the most relevant answer to this