Gastric Fluid Calprotectin Levels.

Objective: This study aims toprove the presence of calprotectin in gastric fluid, and to evaluate the use of gastric fluid calprotectin in the diagnosis of gastric cancer. Materials and Methods: Included in this prospective study were 60 patients with upper gastrointestinal system complaints. Gastric fluid samples obtained during gastroscopy procedures through an ERCP cannula were stored at -20 degrees centigrade for six months, after which the calprotectin levels were measured. Standard endoscopic biopsies were also taken from the patients included in the study for tissue diagnosis. Results: A statistically significant difference was found between the groups (p=0.0001), with significant differences identified between the three groups. The p values identified in comparisons of group 1 and group 2; group 1 and group 3; and group 2 and group 3 were found to be p=0.043, p=0.001 and p=0.0001. Conclusion: Calprotectin, which is found in the gastric fluid, may be used in the differential diagnosis of benign and malignant ulcers. Prospective studies are needed to support the use of calprotectin in early diagnoses of gastric cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]