[Evaluation of the effect of H2-histamine antagonists in the natural history of stomach cancer].

On a study population of 131 patients the Authors evaluate possible differences related to the use of H2 blockers. Patients were divided in 2 groups: one (70 cases) studied before the introduction of H2 blockers and the other (61 cases) treated with H2 blockers. The influence of endoscopy for the early diagnosis of gastric cancer was also considered. The Authors conclude that H2 blockers do not have a negative influence from a surgical point of view, however the correct diagnosis may often be delayed and this is not acceptable for an era in which early diagnosis is feasible.