[The role of surgery in primary gastric non-Hodgkin's malignant lymphoma]

A total of 15 cases of primary gastric non-Hodgkin's malignant lymphoma (PGML) seen between 1974 and 1985 were reviewed, and data obtained combined with reports in the literature, to define the place of surgery in this affection becoming the monopoly of chemotherapists. The indication for surgery is indisputable when the diagnosis is in doubt, and justified for ulcerated and preperforating forms and in extirpable tumoral forms of loco malignancy. It should be avoided in high grade PGML unless the operation does not delay chemotherapy. Total gastrectomy should not be performed by principle but by necessity. Abdominal exploration should include lymph node and liver biopsies. An effective total care of these patients requires close cooperation between medical and surgical teams.