[Recurrence factors in benign gastric ulcer].

Among 7015 upper gastrointestinal endoscopies done during five consecutive years (1984-1988) 642 patients were diagnosed as having benign gastric ulcer. Of this group, 213 patients have been followed-up during an adequate period of time. A recurrence was diagnosed endoscopically in 43 (20.18%). The authors analyze the influence on recurrences of general factors (age, sex, alcohol, tobacco and drugs), family history and local factors (site and size of the ulcer, histological lesions, concomitant duodenal ulcer or single or multiple ulcers). The conclusions are that in females and in males over 60 years of age, NSAIDS are the factors which greatly influence recurrences, while in males under 60 years of age, excessive smoking and alcohol. Chronic gastritis and intestinal metaplasia are common in recurrent ulcers. Multiple ulcers as well as those associated with duodenal ulcers have a greater tendency to recur. Recurring ulcers are more common at the incisura angularis. Recurrences are usually located at the site of a previous ulcer.