Clinical Tests of Gastric Function

In recent years the well known gruel test meal has given place to more precise tests of gastric secretion, measurements of the rate of emptying have been introduced into clinical practice and it has become possible to measure the stimulating hormone, gastrin. The whole subject has been admirably reviewed in a small paper-back by Professor Alastair Connell, now of Cincinnati, Ohio. In this book he refers extensively to his experience of 1,800 tests in the gastric function service which he ran here in Belfast. Many of these patients were followed up over a period of years, so that the results of acid studies can be linked to the clinical findings, giving authority to Dr. Connell's findings.