Intestinal metaplasia occurs when cells in the tissues of the upper digestive tract, often in the stomach, change and become more like cells from the intestines.

 

Symptoms

 

Patients suffering from intestinal metaplasia often have no noticeable symptoms. While, some people may develop symptoms which mimics other upper digestive tract diseases.

 

What causes intestinal metaplasia?

 

Intestinal metaplasia refers to the growth of intestinal cells in the stomach wall. The normal gastric cells were damaged due to chronic inflammation. In the process of repairing damaged cells, there is a chance to cause genetic change. As a result, some cells will become intestinal cells. Though the exact cause of intestinal metaplasia is unknown, some studies have shown that it is related to Helicobacter pylori, heredity, diet (high-salt foods, smoking, alcohol abuse) and chronic bile reflux.

 

Will intestinal metaplasia evolve into gastric cancer?

 

Patients with intestinal metaplasia are more likely to develop gastric cancer than others. There is not much research on the development of intestinal metaplasia to gastric cancer, and the incidence rate varies widely. Based on the research in Europe, America, and Asia, about 1-2 people per 1,000 people will develop gastric cancer every year.

 

Diagnosis

 

Patients with metaplasia usually have no symptoms. However, as most of the cases are caused by gastritis, the disease is often found during gastroscopy. Under white-light endoscopy, it is difficult for the naked eye to tell whether intestinal metaplasia has occurred on the stomach wall. To increase the detection rate, doctor may use new technologies, such as narrow-band imaging systems, to improve the contrast of the diseased areas. Diagnosis is confirmed by examination of the stomach biopsy under microscopy.

 

Is intestinal metaplasia of the stomach reversible?

 

Doctor will find out the cause of chronic gastritis, such as Helicobacter pylori, smoking, alcohol abuse, and then treat it. Dietary pattern may not replace the treatment. But it is always beneficial to eat more fresh fruits and vegetables and to eat less marinated and smoked food.

 

The above information is for reference only, please consult your doctor for detail.