[The pathogenetic problems of gastric and duodenal peptic ulcer]

Studies into the content of nonspecific defense factors, secretory and serum immunoglobulins in blood and biological fluids (saliva, gastric juice, duodenal contents) in patients suffering from peptic ulcer have demonstrated significant changes in local and general immunity. Exacerbation of the disease was marked by a decrease of the titer of complement, C3-component of complement, and lysozyme level. At the same time there was an increase of the concentration of secretory immunoglobulins and immunoglobulins in blood serum and external secretions. The data obtained attest to the tension of humoral immunity and nonspecific defense in peptic ulcer patients, giving rise to the consideration of the changes in the humoral component as one of potential mechanisms by which ulcer is formed.