gastritisz

Gastritisz is inflammation of the stomach lining, a term sometimes used as a variant spelling of gastritis. It describes conditions in which the stomach mucosa becomes irritated, inflamed, or damaged, with a range of causes and severities. The condition is typically categorized as acute or chronic, and by etiology, including Helicobacter pylori infection, autoimmune processes, chemical irritation from nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or alcohol, bile reflux, or other inflammatory conditions.

Common causes and etiologies include infection with Helicobacter pylori, prolonged NSAID or aspirin use, excessive alcohol intake, autoimmune gastritis, stress-related mucosal damage, and chemical irritation. Chronic forms may involve mucosal atrophy or specialized inflammatory patterns such as lymphocytic or autoimmune gastritis. The exact mechanism varies by cause but generally involves disruption of the protective gastric mucosa, leading to irritation, erosion, or injury.

Typical symptoms are nonspecific and may include upper abdominal pain or discomfort, bloating, nausea, vomiting, early satiety, and loss of appetite. Some individuals, particularly with mild gastritis, may have no symptoms. Severe cases can cause gastrointestinal bleeding, indicated by dark stools or vomiting blood, and may require urgent evaluation.

Diagnosis relies on clinical assessment and targeted testing. Noninvasive testing for Helicobacter pylori (urea breath test or stool antigen test) is common, while endoscopy with biopsy is used when symptoms persist, there is anemia, or peptic ulcers are suspected. Blood tests and stool tests may help assess anemia or inflammation.

Treatment focuses on the underlying cause and symptom relief. H. pylori infection is treated with antibiotic regimens and acid suppression. Stopping or reducing NSAID use, limiting alcohol, and using proton pump inhibitors or H2 blockers can promote healing. Autoimmune or atrophic gastritis may require nutritional management, including vitamin B12 if indicated, and monitoring for complications. Prognosis is generally favorable with appropriate therapy, though chronic gastritis can persist or lead to complications such as ulcers or, in some autoimmune or atrophic forms, increased cancer risk. Regular follow-up is advised for persistent or high-risk cases.