Chronic Superficial Gastritis: Understanding the Condition

Chronic superficial gastritis is a type of gastric mucosal inflammation that primarily affects the surface layer of the stomach lining, without extending into the deeper tissues. Under endoscopic examination, this condition typically presents with signs such as mucosal congestion, edema, redness, and sometimes mild erosion.

Key Characteristics

Unlike atrophic gastritis, chronic superficial gastritis does not involve significant mucosal thickening, glandular atrophy, or visible submucosal blood vessels. These distinguishing features help doctors identify the condition during diagnostic procedures.

Symptoms and Clinical Presentation

Many individuals with this condition may not experience noticeable symptoms. However, when symptoms do occur, they often include upper abdominal pain, bloating, belching, and acid reflux. These discomforts can vary in intensity and frequency among different patients.

Common Causes

One of the primary factors associated with chronic superficial gastritis is infection with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) bacteria. This microorganism can trigger inflammation in the stomach lining and contribute to ongoing digestive issues.

Diagnosis and Testing

If this condition is suspected, healthcare providers can perform specific diagnostic tests to check for H. pylori infection and assess the overall health of the gastric mucosa. These tests may include breath tests, stool antigen tests, or endoscopic biopsies.