How Often Should You Have a Follow-Up Endoscopy for Chronic Gastritis?

Understanding the timing for follow-up endoscopies is essential for managing chronic gastritis effectively. The frequency of these check-ups largely depends on the severity and type of gastritis diagnosed during the initial endoscopic examination.

Chronic gastritis is generally categorized into two main types: superficial gastritis and atrophic gastritis. If a patient is diagnosed with superficial gastritis and there are no additional complications such as erosion, it is typically recommended to repeat the endoscopy every 3 to 5 years. However, if Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is detected, treatment to eradicate this bacterium should be initiated promptly, as it plays a significant role in the development and progression of gastritis.

For patients with atrophic gastritis, the follow-up schedule is more nuanced and based on the extent of atrophy and any associated changes observed in the stomach lining. In cases of simple atrophy without intestinal metaplasia, a follow-up endoscopy every 3 years is often sufficient.

If mild intestinal metaplasia is present, doctors usually recommend a more frequent monitoring schedule, such as an endoscopy every 1 to 2 years. For individuals with moderate to severe intestinal metaplasia or mild dysplasia, a yearly endoscopy is advised to closely monitor for any precancerous changes.

In more advanced cases where severe intestinal metaplasia or moderate to severe dysplasia is identified, endoscopic surveillance should occur more frequently—typically every 1 to 3 months initially, with a maximum interval of 6 months between exams. This close monitoring helps detect any malignant transformation at an early, treatable stage.

Regular follow-up not only helps track the progression of chronic gastritis but also improves long-term outcomes by enabling timely interventions when necessary. Always consult with your gastroenterologist to determine the best screening schedule based on your individual diagnosis and medical history.