Gastric Polyps

Description

Gastric polyps are benign epithelial lesions of the stomach. They are relatively uncommon and are detected in approximately 2% of individuals undergoing upper gastrointestinal endoscopy for various indications. Most patients have a solitary gastric polyp, whereas approximately one-quarter have multiple polyps. Gastric polyps occur with similar frequency in men and women and are more common in individuals older than 60 years of age.

Cause

The most common type of gastric polyp is the hyperplastic polyp, which develops in response to chronic gastritis. Fundic gland polyps may also develop, most commonly in association with long-term proton pump inhibitor therapy.

Risk Factors

Risk factors for the development of gastric polyps include:

• Advanced age.
• Helicobacter pylori infection.
• Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP).
• Long-term use of proton pump inhibitors.

Symptoms

Most gastric polyps are asymptomatic. Occasionally, patients may experience mild epigastric discomfort or tenderness.

Diagnosis

Gastric polyps are usually detected incidentally during upper gastrointestinal endoscopy (esophagogastroduodenoscopy). When a gastric polyp is identified, biopsy or complete removal is recommended for histopathological examination to determine its type and exclude dysplasia or malignancy.

Treatment

Small non-neoplastic gastric polyps usually do not require treatment unless they have features suggestive of neoplasia. Larger polyps can be removed endoscopically. In patients with familial adenomatous polyposis, gastric adenomas should be removed because of their malignant potential. Patients should also be tested for Helicobacter pylori, and eradication therapy should be administered if infection is confirmed.

Source | Author Doctor Nikas Samuolis, reviewed by Prof. Virginijus Šapoka | Vilnius University | Faculty of Medicine | Head of the Department of Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, and Oncology