Gastric Antrum Ulcer H1 Phase: How Serious Is It?

A gastric antrum ulcer in the H1 phase is generally not considered serious, as this stage indicates that the ulcer is in the early healing process. Ulcers are typically classified into three phases based on endoscopic and histological findings: active phase, healing phase, and scar phase.

The H1 phase marks the initial stage of healing, where mucosal repair has begun. At this point, the ulcer has started to shrink compared to its active state, and regenerative epithelium begins to form around the edges. This tissue gradually moves toward the center of the ulcer, creating a visible mucosal convergence pattern.

Following the H1 phase is the H2 phase, where the ulcer bed is completely covered by new epithelial tissue, signaling further progress in the healing process. Once this stage is complete, the ulcer transitions into the scar phase.

In the scar phase, which occurs after full healing, two sub-stages can be identified. In Stage I of scarring, the area appears red due to newly formed blood vessels surrounding the former ulcer site. Over time, this red scar evolves into a white scar in Stage II, indicating that the stomach lining has fully healed.

Understanding these stages helps both patients and doctors monitor recovery and determine whether treatment is progressing as expected. If you have been diagnosed with a gastric ulcer in the H1 phase, it's a positive sign that your condition is improving and that appropriate healing is taking place.