Can atrophic gastritis turn into cancer?

Written by Si Li Li
Gastroenterology
Updated on December 31, 2024
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Chronic atrophic gastritis has a certain chance of cancerous transformation, with an annual cancer transformation rate of between 0.5% and 1%. It is a type of chronic gastritis. During gastroscopy, the atrophy of the inherent glands of the gastric mucosa can be observed. A definitive diagnosis of chronic atrophic gastritis can be made through biopsy and pathological examination. In terms of treatment, the first step is the treatment against Helicobacter pylori, which includes a proton pump inhibitor, two antibiotics, and a bismuth agent, with a treatment course of 14 days. Additionally, treatments include acid suppression, stomach protection, promoting gastric motility, and protecting the gastric mucosa. Furthermore, oral traditional Chinese medicine plays a significant role in the treatment of atrophic gastritis. Therefore, it is suggested that patients with atrophic gastritis consider integrated traditional Chinese and Western medicine treatment, which can yield good results.

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Written by Huang Gang
Gastroenterology
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Is atrophic gastritis grade I serious?

Grade I atrophic gastritis is not serious. Atrophic gastritis refers to the atrophy and reduction of the gastric mucosa and glands, and it manifests with symptoms like stomach discomfort, bloating, stomach pain, and loss of appetite. For those with atrophic gastric cancer, it is important to control the diet, avoid overeating, and abstain from spicy, raw, greasy, and irritating foods. This type of chronic digestive system disease, if not properly managed, can frequently relapse and has the potential to become malignant. If the condition can be controlled and does not frequently recur, it generally does not have a significant impact on the body.

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Written by Wu Hai Wu
Gastroenterology
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What fruits should be avoided with atrophic gastritis?

The main dietary restrictions for atrophic gastritis include quitting smoking and drinking. It is important to eat less salty and overly hot foods, and to avoid spicy and irritating foods. In addition, patients should avoid coarse foods and eat more fresh vegetables and fruits rich in vitamins. They should eat regularly, have small frequent meals, chew slowly, and maintain a pleasant mood. Patients with atrophic gastritis should maintain a regular diet and have periodic gastroscopy check-ups, as there is a potential for malignancy in atrophic gastritis patients.

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Written by Wu Hai Wu
Gastroenterology
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Is the cancerous transformation of atrophic gastritis related to the duration of the disease?

The carcinogenesis of atrophic gastritis does not have a significant relationship with the duration of the disease. The main cause of atrophic gastritis is Helicobacter pylori infection, with autoimmune abnormalities and genetic factors also playing a significant role in atrophic gastritis. Sometimes, patients with a short duration of atrophic gastritis may also develop cancer, while those who have had the disease for many years may not necessarily develop cancer. Therefore, once atrophic gastritis is diagnosed, it is important to regularly re-examine with gastroscopy to rule out the possibility of early malignancy.

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Written by Wu Hai Wu
Gastroenterology
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What are the symptoms before atrophic gastritis turns cancerous?

Patients with atrophic gastritis primarily exhibit symptoms such as dull pain, bloating, and burning pain in the upper abdomen, along with belching, acid reflux, weight loss, anemia, and more. If the pain from atrophic gastritis does not follow a clear pattern and is accompanied by progressive weight loss and refractory anemia, the possibility of cancerous changes in atrophic gastritis should be considered. It is advisable to promptly complete an endoscopy to confirm the diagnosis and rule out malignancy, and, if necessary, undertake a biopsy. In terms of treatment, it is first essential to test for Helicobacter pylori infection and then use medications to protect the gastric mucosa.

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Written by Jiang Guo Ming
Gastroenterology
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How to effectively treat atrophic gastritis?

Relatively speaking, atrophic gastritis is much more serious than superficial gastritis. Treatment for this condition primarily depends on whether there is Helicobacter pylori infection. If there is Helicobacter pylori infection, a quadruple therapy is generally adopted to eradicate the bacteria, which can reverse some of the atrophy. If there is no Helicobacter pylori infection, treatment mainly involves symptomatic relief, such as protecting the gastric mucosa and increasing gastric motility, etc. Traditional Chinese medicine and herbal medicine also have relatively good effects on atrophic gastritis, often employing a comprehensive treatment after differential diagnosis. As for diet, it is recommended to eat light, easily digestible foods, eat at regular times and in small, frequent meals, and avoid stimulants like tobacco and alcohol, as well as raw, greasy, or spicy foods. (Please use medication under the guidance of a professional physician.)