Aspirin-Induced Ultrastructural Changes in Human Gastric Mucosa

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Abstract
Aspirin breaks the gastric mucosal barrier. The effect of aspirin on this barrier was studied, correlating changes in potential difference and ultrastructure. Mean control potential difference for 7 subjects was -48 .+-. 1.0 mV. Oral aspirin, 600 mg in 100 ml of saline, reduced potential difference to -39 .+-. 1.4 mV (P < 0.001) within 10 min. Gastric biopsies were taken during control, aspirin-instillation and recovery periods. Damage was present in all biopsies after aspirin. Light microscopy showed focal cell disruption, loss of mucous granules and apical membrane rupture. Transmission EM showed intact tight junctions. Scanning EM showed loss of normal cobblestone cell apices, giving a honeycombed surface. Ten min after aspirin, 25% of surface epithelial cells were damaged. Marked recovery was noted at 1 h, with a normal potential difference and only 9% cell damage. Single routine doses of aspirin probably cause focal damage to normal human gastric mucosa.