During autopsies on patients whose illnesses resulted in circulatory failure, we often observe irregular congestion and ecchymoses of duodenal mucosa with a maximum of changes on the tops of mucosal folds. A thorough histological examination of the duodenum of 35 such patients was made. In 28 cases apart from hyperemia, hemorrhage into tunica propria of the villi was found resembling the picture of minor hemorrhagic infarctions. Additionally, in 5 cases there were erosions present which resembled coagulation necrosis. Cuneiform infarctions penetrating into the submucosa were present in 3 cases. Changes described above appear as early manifestations of stress.

        Key words: duodenal mucosa - stress - autopsy