Antral biopsy shows intestinal metaplasia, what does it mean?

Normally, intestinal metaplasia (+) found in a biopsy of the antrum indicates that intestinal epithelial metaplasia has occurred in the gastric mucosal epithelial cells at the antral region of the stomach. Intestinal metaplasia may be caused by factors such as heredity, aging, unhealthy lifestyle habits, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or chronic atrophic gastritis. If discomfort occurs, prompt medical attention is recommended. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Heredity

Genetic factors may play a role in the development of intestinal metaplasia. Individuals with genetic susceptibility are more likely to develop intestinal metaplasia under the same environmental exposures. It is recommended to maintain healthy lifestyle habits, regular sleep patterns, balanced nutrition, and avoid irritating foods.

2. Aging

With aging, various physiological functions gradually decline, and the repair and regeneration capacity of the gastric mucosa weakens, making it more susceptible to damage from various factors, thereby promoting the occurrence of intestinal metaplasia. Regular gastroscopic examinations are necessary in daily life to detect and treat gastric mucosal lesions promptly.

3. Unhealthy Lifestyle Habits

Long-term unhealthy habits such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can damage the gastric mucosa, reduce its resistance, and increase the risk of intestinal metaplasia. It is recommended to improve unhealthy lifestyle habits and engage in appropriate exercise to enhance physical health.

4. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

Overeating can cause gastroesophageal reflux disease. Excessive gastric acid secretion can place the gastric mucosa in a highly acidic environment for a prolonged period, leading to gastric mucosal inflammation and intestinal metaplasia. Symptoms may include stomach pain, heartburn, acid regurgitation, nausea, and others. Treatment may involve medications such as domperidone tablets, ranitidine capsules, and rabeprazole sodium enteric-coated tablets, as directed by a physician.

5. Chronic Atrophic Gastritis

Long-term emotional states such as mental stress, anxiety, and depression increase the risk of chronic gastritis. Inflammatory stimulation damages the gastric mucosal epithelial cells and prompts the neck stem cells of the gastric glands to differentiate into intestinal-type cells, resulting in intestinal metaplasia. Common symptoms include upper abdominal pain, a feeling of fullness, belching, and acid regurgitation. Treatment may involve medications such as omeprazole enteric-coated tablets, pantoprazole sodium enteric-coated capsules, and teprenone capsules, as advised by a physician.

In daily life, maintaining good lifestyle and dietary habits and undergoing regular health check-ups are beneficial for overall health.