Gastric Fundic Gland Polyps with Negative H. pylori: What Does It Mean?

During the process of chronic gastritis, it is common for small growths called polyps to develop in the stomach lining. In most cases, these polyps are benign and do not pose a serious health risk. From a pathological perspective, the majority of gastric polyps are classified as hyperplastic or adenomatous polyps, both of which are considered non-cancerous changes.

There are various causes of gastric polyps, and one important factor is the presence of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), a type I carcinogen. This bacterium is well-known for its role in causing peptic ulcers, chronic gastritis, and even increasing the risk of gastric cancer. When a polyp is associated with H. pylori infection (HP positive), it often requires more aggressive management, including removal of the polyp and eradication therapy to eliminate the bacterial infection.

On the other hand, gastric fundic gland polyps with negative H. pylori results are generally less concerning. These types of polyps typically do not carry a risk of malignancy. If no symptoms are present after removal, patients can usually return to normal life with a regular, healthy diet that includes low-fat and non-irritating foods. In such cases, no additional medication or treatment is typically necessary, although periodic follow-up may be recommended by your physician depending on individual circumstances.

It's always important to understand the nature of any abnormal growth in the digestive tract, and distinguishing between HP-positive and HP-negative polyps helps guide appropriate treatment decisions. Patients should work closely with their gastroenterologist to determine the best course of action based on biopsy results and overall gastrointestinal health.