Study of gastric acid secretion in hookworm duodenitis

Abstract

An increased basal acid output was found in 59 patients with proven hookworm infestation, but not as high as in 102 patients with uncomplicated duodenal ulcers. Histamine induced maximal acid output was proportionately higher in ulcer patients than in those with hookworm. Hyperchlorhydria in ancylostomiasis is attributed to duodenal damage and consequent release of gastrin. Incidence of chronic duodenal ulcer in the total in-patient hospital group is not more than 5%, but is above 15% for patients with hookworm.