Risk factors for development of primary cancer in the gastric stump. Intragastric nitrites and nitroso-compounds after surgery for duodenal ulcer.

Results are reported from a study on the presence and concentration of nitrites and nitroso-compounds in the gastric juice of 53 patients operated on for duodenal ulcer and in 15 controls. The investigations were made after various postoperative intervals. In the patients who had undergone Billroth II operation, the concentrations of nitrites and of nitroso-compounds were higher than in those with Billroth I operation and in the controls. It is concluded that patients with Billroth II operation may be particularly susceptible to subsequent primary neoplasm of the gastric stump, as a result of the carcinogenic action of these substances.