Ample evidence has been provided concerning the presence of tenascin in various histological subtypes of gastric cancer. However, conflict and discussion still persist regarding the correlation with different classification systems and prognostic impact. Therefore, we studied 203 adenocarcinomas of the stomach with special emphasis to the WHO-classification, Lauren's and Goseki's subtypes as well. The immunohistochemical ABC-method was applied using a monoclonal anti-human-tenascin antibody. 30% of all tumours showed a distinct staining reaction. Tubulo-papillary carcinomas (WHO) revealed a significantly stronger reactivity than signet-ring subtypes. Adenocarcinomas of intestinal type (Lauren) were significantly more positive than the diffuse types. Mucin-poor tumours (Goseki I+III) stained positive in a much higher degree compared to mucin-rich subtypes (Goseki II+IV). However, no correlation could been demonstrated regarding TNM-stage or prognosis.