Can atrophic gastritis lead to gastric cancer?

Written by Gong Chun
Oncology
Updated on September 27, 2024
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The development of gastric cancer, particularly intestinal-type gastric cancer, is a multi-stage process influenced by various factors. Chronic atrophic gastritis is primarily characterized by the atrophy and reduction of gastric mucosal glands. Consequently, it often accompanies varying degrees of metaplasia in the gastrointestinal mucosal epithelium. Chronic atrophic gastritis features a reduction in B cells of the gastric glands, and the pH value of gastric juice may increase. Hence, the relationship between chronic atrophic gastritis and gastric cancer is significant, as it is considered a precancerous lesion. Therefore, if one has atrophic gastritis, it is crucial to seek timely medical treatment to prevent worsening of the condition.

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Written by Si Li Li
Gastroenterology
1min 12sec home-news-image

What are the symptoms of atrophic gastritis?

The main symptoms of atrophic gastritis include upper abdominal pain, belching, acid reflux, poor appetite, nausea, vomiting, indigestion, etc., which are not specific compared to the symptoms of chronic superficial gastritis. Therefore, it is not possible to determine whether it is atrophic gastritis or superficial gastritis based solely on symptoms; a gastroscopy is necessary for a definitive diagnosis. If the gastroscopy reveals thinning of the gastric mucosa and atrophy of the gastric glands, atrophic gastritis can be confirmed. Additionally, if atrophic gastritis is suspected, a biopsy and pathological examination are also needed for a clear diagnosis. Regarding treatment, atrophic gastritis requires therapies such as anti-Helicobacter pylori treatment, acid suppression, promoting gastric motility, and protecting the gastric mucosa. Furthermore, it is recommended to combine traditional Chinese medicine differentiation-based treatment for better effects when used alongside Western medicine.

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Written by Zhu Dan Hua
Gastroenterology
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Can I eat watermelon with atrophic gastritis?

Patients with atrophic gastritis can certainly eat watermelon, as long as it is consumed in small amounts. The diet for atrophic gastritis should primarily consist of easily digestible, clean foods, and avoid spicy and irritating foods, such as salted fish and alcohol intake, etc. Typically, patients with atrophic gastritis seek medical advice due to abdominal discomfort, exhibiting symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, vomiting, and early satiety. A comprehensive gastroscopy indicates inflammatory changes and atrophic alterations of the gastric mucosa. In terms of treatment, apart from dietary management, pharmacological treatment can be selected, including acid-reducing and gastric-protective medications, particularly suitable are traditional Chinese medicines that protect the stomach. It is advisable to supplement some vitamins and avoid spicy and pickled foods. Certainly, for atrophic gastritis, it is important to be cautious of concurrent Helicobacter pylori infection. If Helicobacter pylori infection is considered, anti-Helicobacter pylori treatment is recommended for the patient, followed by regular follow-ups, typically every six months to one year for a gastroscopy examination. (Medication should be used under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Zhang Peng
General Surgery
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How to treat chronic non-atrophic gastritis with bile reflux?

For cases of chronic non-atrophic gastritis with bile reflux, it is first necessary to clarify whether there is a Helicobacter pylori infection, which can be determined by a breath test. Based on this, regular visits to the department of gastroenterology for diagnostics and treatment can be established. Firstly, it is important to take oral medication to protect the gastric mucosa and then to promote gastrointestinal motility. Regular follow-ups are very important. Generally, for patients with non-atrophic gastritis and bile reflux, it depends on whether the condition is high or low. For those in the high category, it is necessary to undergo a gastroscopy every six months.

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Written by Si Li Li
Gastroenterology
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How to regulate non-atrophic gastritis

Chronic gastritis is divided into chronic atrophic gastritis and chronic non-atrophic gastritis. Chronic non-atrophic gastritis, also known as chronic superficial gastritis, mainly presents symptoms such as upper abdominal distension, belching, acid reflux, nausea, vomiting, and indigestion. Gastroscope examination revealing redness, edema, or erosion of the gastric mucosa can diagnose chronic non-atrophic gastritis. The treatment primarily involves acid suppression, stomach protection, and enhancement of gastric motility, typically requiring about four to six weeks. It is also recommended to conduct a Carbon-14 breath test to determine if there is an infection with Helicobacter pylori; if the infection is positive, a 14-day treatment against Helicobacter pylori is necessary. Additionally, dietary considerations should focus on easily digestible foods, avoiding spicy, fried, barbecued, sweet, or cold foods. Smoking and alcohol consumption should be avoided, as well as foods like milk, soy milk, glutinous rice, and sweet potatoes.

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Written by Si Li Li
Gastroenterology
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Is atrophic gastritis easy to treat?

Atrophic gastritis is a type of chronic gastritis characterized by the atrophy of gastric mucosal glands. It carries a certain risk of becoming cancerous. The main symptoms include upper abdominal pain, postprandial fullness, heartburn, indigestion, belching, and acid reflux. Gastroscope examination reveals atrophy of the gastric glands, and a biopsy is needed for a pathological examination to confirm the diagnosis of chronic atrophic gastritis. In terms of treatment, the first step is to eradicate Helicobacter pylori, which includes a regimen of one proton pump inhibitor, two antibiotics, and one bismuth agent, lasting for 14 days. This is followed by acid suppression and mucosal repair treatments. Additionally, the treatment with traditional Chinese medicine plays a significant role in managing atrophic gastritis. This condition is challenging to treat, has poor outcomes, is prone to relapse, and carries a risk of cancer transformation.