Affecting millions of Americans each year, a stomach ulcer is a raw, open area in the normal lining of the stomach. Stomach ulcers get their particular name depending on the exact location of the ulcer. For example, a duodenal or peptic ulcer is a stomach ulcer found in the first foot of small intestines past the stomach. A gastric ulcer is located inside the stomach itself. Although duodenal or peptic ulcers are almost always benign, it is important to remember that gastric or stomach ulcers can be malignant. Close medical management is critical.