glossary

achlorhydria

Definition achlorhydria

achlorhydria

achlorhydria n. absence of hydrochloric acid in the stomach. Achlorhydria that persists despite large doces of histamine is associated with atrophy of the lining (mucosa) of the stomach. In this condition there is usually an absence of secretion of *intrinsic factor, which will lead to *pernicious anaemia. In some people, however, achlorhydra is not associated with any disease, produces no ill-effects, and needs no treatment.