Summary
1. A classification of gastro-duodenal ulcers on an etiological and clinical basis is presented.
2. There is discussion of the limitations of histopathology in the elucidation of the chronic ulcer and other psychogenic diseases. For that reason the pathological picture of the ulcer itself plays a minor role in this classification.
3. Evidence is advanced to show the inadequacy of the term “peptic” as descriptive of gastro-duodenal ulcers. The term “chronic” is shown to be loose and without any specific connotation.
4. The term “psychogenic” is suggested as a substitute because it is descriptive of the causal relationship of the disease.
5. Malignant transformation does not occur in a benign psychogenic ulcer.
6. Traumatic ulcer is classified as brought about by direct causes and therefore could not result in a psychogenic (chronic) ulcer.
7. The subjective, physical and laboratory findings of hemorrhagic erosions should not be included in statistical studies of the psychogenic type of ulcer.
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From the Department of Medicine, Woodlawn Hospital, Chicago, Illinois.
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Robinson, S.C. A classification of gastro-duodenal ulcers on the basis of their etiology. American Journal of Digestive Diseases and Nutrition 3, 375–382 (1936). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02999155
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02999155