Superficial Gastritis: How Serious Is It?

Superficial gastritis is generally not considered a severe condition. It is a common finding in many individuals and refers to inflammation that affects only the upper layer of the stomach lining. In fact, during routine endoscopic examinations, a large number of people are found to have some degree of superficial gastritis. This is largely due to the constant process of food digestion and mechanical grinding in the stomach, which can cause minor injuries or irritation to the mucous membrane. As such, isolated cases of superficial gastritis are usually harmless and often do not require aggressive treatment.

However, it's important to understand the progression of certain types of gastritis, particularly intestinal-type gastritis. According to both international and domestic medical consensus, this type typically follows a specific sequence: it begins with superficial gastritis, then progresses to atrophic gastritis, followed by intestinal metaplasia, dysplasia (or atypical hyperplasia), and eventually may develop into gastric cancer. While superficial gastritis itself is not dangerous, it can be an early indicator of more serious conditions if left unmonitored.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has established clear diagnostic criteria for superficial gastritis, based on both the location and histological findings. Over the past two years, updated guidelines have further clarified the diagnostic process, incorporating pathological analysis, assessment of atrophy, anatomical location, and visual endoscopic observations. These standards help doctors accurately classify and monitor different forms of gastritis to prevent potential complications.