gastric analysis, examination of the contents of the stomach, primarily to determine the quantity of acid present and incidentally to ascertain the presence of blood, bile, bacteria, and abnormal cells. It may also be done to detect acid-fast bacillus in a client with undiagnosed tuberculosis. A sample of gastric secretion is obtained via a nasogastric tube. The technique used varies according to the information desired. The total absence of hydrochloric acid is diagnostic of pernicious anemia. Patients with gastric ulcer and gastric cancer may secrete less acid than normal whereas patients with duodenal ulcers secrete more. The composition and volume of the secretions may also provide diagnostic information. This procedure is rarely performed.
