Gastritis (inflammation of the gastric mucosa)

Gastric mucosal inflammation, or gastritis, is the pathological process of inflammation in the mucus-lined layer of the stomach (gastric mucosa). It may result from infection (most commonly Helicobacter pylori), autoimmune mechanisms, chemical or drug-induced injury (notably NSAIDs and alcohol), or other causes. Clinically, gastritis may be either acute or chronic and can present with symptoms such as pain, nausea, vomiting, and, in severe cases, bleeding. Chronic gastritis increases the risk of complications including peptic ulcers, polyps, malignant transformation, and anemia. Diagnosis rests on histopathological evidence from biopsy in addition to clinical and endoscopic findings, and treatment is directed at eliminating the underlying cause and suppressing gastric acid.

Other names

Gastric mucosal inflammationGastric inflammationStomach lining inflammationGastritis

Acid suppression (PPIs, H2 blockers) Antimicrobial eradication of H. pylori (antibiotics) Mucosal protection/enhancement (sucralfate, bismuth) Reduction of gastric irritants (NSAID withdrawal)