Atrophic gastritis
Atrophic Gastritis
Atrophic gastritis (pronounced: a-tro-fik gas-tri-tis) is a chronic inflammation of the stomach lining that results in the loss of glands in the stomach (glandular atrophy) and decreased stomach acid production (hypochlorhydria).
Etymology
The term "atrophic gastritis" is derived from the Greek words "atrophia" meaning "wasting away" and "gastritis" meaning "inflammation of the stomach".
Definition
Atrophic gastritis is a process of chronic inflammation of the stomach mucosa, leading to loss of gastric glandular cells and their eventual replacement by intestinal and fibrous tissues. As a result, the stomach's secretion of essential substances such as hydrochloric acid, pepsin, and intrinsic factor is impaired, leading to digestive problems.
Symptoms
The symptoms of atrophic gastritis can vary, but may include: indigestion, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and weight loss. In severe cases, it can lead to pernicious anemia due to a lack of intrinsic factor necessary for vitamin B12 absorption.
Causes
Atrophic gastritis can be caused by persistent infection with Helicobacter pylori, a bacterium that causes stomach inflammation, or by an autoimmune reaction, where the body's immune system attacks the cells in the stomach.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of atrophic gastritis is typically made through endoscopy, where a small camera is used to look at the stomach lining, and biopsy, where a small sample of the stomach lining is taken for examination under a microscope.
Treatment
Treatment for atrophic gastritis depends on the underlying cause. If the cause is Helicobacter pylori infection, antibiotics can be used to eradicate the bacteria. If the cause is an autoimmune condition, treatment may involve managing the autoimmune condition and supplementing with vitamin B12.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Atrophic gastritis
- Wikipedia's article - Atrophic gastritis
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