Chronic Gastritis With Erosion: How Serious Is It?

Chronic gastritis with gastric erosion is typically classified during endoscopic diagnosis into two categories: chronic superficial gastritis with erosion and chronic atrophic gastritis with erosion. Erosion refers to a defect in the stomach lining, often accompanied by bleeding or the presence of blood crusts on the mucosa. A biopsy taken from such areas may reveal acute inflammation, characterized by neutrophil infiltration or minor mucosal loss.

The severity of the condition largely depends on the underlying type of gastritis—whether it's associated with atrophy or remains superficial. If the erosions are widespread, involve significant bleeding, or lead to severe symptoms, prompt and aggressive treatment becomes essential.

In managing chronic gastritis with erosion, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are commonly prescribed to reduce stomach acid and promote healing of the damaged mucosa. Commonly used PPIs include omeprazole, rabeprazole, pantoprazole, and esomeprazole. Patients may also benefit from additional therapies such as mucosal protectants that form a barrier over the eroded areas, aiding in symptom relief and recovery.

Moreover, complementary treatments like traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) have shown promising results in alleviating symptoms and improving overall gastric health. Integrating TCM into conventional therapy can offer a more holistic approach for patients suffering from this condition.

Understanding the nature and severity of gastric erosion is key to effective treatment planning. Regular monitoring and timely intervention can significantly improve outcomes for individuals with chronic gastritis and associated erosions.