[40K study in laryngeal and stomach cancer].

Total potassium was assayed in 101 patients (58--laryngeal cancer and 43--stomach cancer) on the basis of natural background radiation of 40K in a low background chamber. Both cellular and extracellular mass of the body was determined. Control group included 260 healthy subjects. Deficiency in cellular and extracellular mass was established. Cellular mass deficiency increased in step with tumor expansion. Cellular mass level showed a decrease within the first days of combined therapy although adequate paranteral nutrition was given.