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 Ren Zheng Xin
Gastroenterology
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What are the symptoms of atrophic gastritis?

Atrophic gastritis, also known as body-type gastritis, is mainly caused by Helicobacter pylori infection leading to atrophy of the gastric mucosa. Under microscopy, twisted blood vessels and alternating red and white mucosa can be seen. The main symptoms include nausea, vomiting, and decreased appetite. A reduction in parietal cells can lead to decreased secretion of intrinsic factor, thereby causing anemia with red blood cells. If atrophic gastritis is accompanied by ulcers, it can cause severe abdominal pain and bloody stools. It is important to adjust the diet, eat more soft and easily digestible foods, and consume fewer raw, cold, and spicy foods.

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Written by Ren Zheng Xin
Gastroenterology
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What to do about the pain from atrophic gastritis?

Atrophic gastritis is a condition where the mucous membrane of the stomach atrophies, associated with poor neural nutrition and excessive gastric acid secretion, leading to a reduction in the barrier function of the gastric mucosa. To first alleviate pain, proton pump inhibitors can be used to reduce the secretion of gastric acid, and at the same time, gastric mucosal protectants should be used. If there is an infection with Helicobacter pylori, active use of triple or quadruple therapy should be employed to eradicate Helicobacter pylori. It is important to adjust one's diet, eat regularly, and avoid overeating. Greasy and spicy foods should be consumed less, and more bland, soft, and easily digestible foods should be eaten. (Please use medication under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Jiang Guo Ming
Gastroenterology
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How to prevent and treat atrophic gastritis

Chronic gastritis includes two types: chronic non-atrophic gastritis and chronic atrophic gastritis. Chronic atrophic gastritis is generally more severe than chronic non-atrophic gastritis and usually accompanies intestinal metaplasia, which some refer to as a precancerous lesion. If chronic atrophic gastritis is present, formal medical treatment is necessary. Initially, it is advisable to check for Helicobacter pylori infection. If an Helicobacter pylori infection is found, timely eradication therapy is recommended, typically using quadruple therapy, which consists of a proton pump inhibitor, two types of antibiotics, and a bismuth agent. If there is no Helicobacter pylori infection, treatment generally focuses on symptomatic relief, such as protecting the gastric mucosa and enhancing gastric motility. Additionally, traditional Chinese medicine has shown satisfactory effects in treating chronic atrophic gastritis. It is also important to maintain good dietary and living habits, prefer light and easily digestible foods, and avoid raw, greasy, spicy, and irritating foods to help maintain a positive state of mind. Regular gastroscopy check-ups are necessary. (Medication should be taken under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Jiang Guo Ming
Gastroenterology
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Atrophic gastritis with intestinal metaplasia what medicine to take

Chronic atrophic gastritis with intestinal metaplasia often arises from untreated chronic superficial gastritis, primarily due to Helicobacter pylori infection. Therefore, it is essential to first check for Helicobacter pylori infection. If an infection is present, quadruple therapy is generally used to eradicate the bacteria, which may improve the atrophy. If there is no Helicobacter pylori infection, treatment mainly involves protecting the gastric mucosa. While there are no specific Western medicines for this, traditional Chinese medicine and a differential diagnosis approach often yield good results. Regular follow-ups are also important. (Specific medications should be used under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Jiang Guo Ming
Gastroenterology
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How to completely cure atrophic gastritis?

Chronic atrophic gastritis generally develops from chronic non-atrophic gastritis, and the most likely cause may be Helicobacter pylori infection. Of course, there are also other reasons, such as poor dietary habits, emotional factors, etc. In such cases, it is first necessary to check for Helicobacter pylori infection, usually using a breath test. If Helicobacter pylori infection is present, quadruple therapy is generally used for eradication treatment. Eradication of Helicobacter pylori can be very helpful for patients with atrophic gastritis, and in some cases, can partially reverse the atrophy. If there is no Helicobacter pylori infection, symptomatic treatment is generally the main approach. Additionally, conditioning through traditional Chinese medicine can also be very helpful. (Specific medication use should be carried out under the guidance of a doctor.)