Specific binding of sucralfate in gastric ulcer and gastritis.

The binding moiety of sucralfate to gastric mucosal sites, such as gastric ulcers and areas of gastritis, was studied in humans. The methods used to elucidate this binding were chemical assay of sucralfate, gastroscopic examination, and histological diagnosis in 39 patients with gastric ulcer and ten patients with gastritis. Sucralfate was observed in the gastric ulcer, and sucrose sulfate ester and aluminum were detected selectively in the lesions. In cases of chronic gastritis, there was no correlation between histological changes and the binding of the sucralfate, but the amount of adhesive mucus and the state of congestion were significantly correlated with the binding of sucralfate.