Gastritis

• Gastritis is the inflammation of the gastric mucosa. It can be acute or chronic and diffused or localized
• Causes and risk factors are:

  • drugs (NSAIDs, corticosteroids)
  • large intake of alcohol
  • diet (spicy, irritating foods)
  • uremia (increased urea)
  • H pylori infection or other infections
  • autoimmune case
  • surgical procedure
  • prolonged vomiting
• The breakdown of normal gastric mucosal barrier causes loss of protection and results in tissue edema and disruption of capillary walls
• Acute clinical manifestations

  • anorexia
  • nausea
  • vomiting
  • epigastric tenderness
  • feeling of fullness
• If untreated, can cause hemorrhage
• Chronic gastritis can be asymptomatic or can cause the same manifestations as acute gastritis.. May lead to vitamin B12 deficiency (absorbed in stomach) which results in anemia
• Diagnostic studies

  • gastroscopy and biopsy
  • stool for occult blood
  • CBC (anemia)
• Acute gastritis management

  • elimination of cause
  • meds (H2 blockers or PPIs)
  • bed rest
  • NPO or IV fluids
  • electrolyte replacement
• Chronic gastritis management

  • elimination of the cause
  • antibiotic if caused by infection
  • meds after meals (antacids)
  • vitamin B12 replacement
  • lifestyle modifications like smoking cessation