Stomach polyps
Stomach polyps are clumps of cells that grow on the lining of the stomach Stomach polyps are rare
Stomach polyps do not cause signs or symptoms Polyps are usually discovered during examinations for other reasons
Most gastric polyps are non-cancerous, although some forms increase the risk of stomach cancer Because of this, stomach polyps are always excised
Stomach polyps form in response to inflammation or other damage to the lining of the stomach Common forms of gastric polyps are:
- Hyperplastic polyps that form in response to chronic inflammation of the cells lining the stomach Hyperplastic polyps in people with inflammation of the stomach (gastritis). This association may be related to Helicobacter pylori, which infects the lining of the stomach Most hyperplastic polyps do not turn into stomach cancer, although polyps larger than 2 centimeters in diameter have a greater risk of turning into cancer.
- Glandular polyps of the fundus of the stomach, which arise from glandular cells on the inner surface of the stomach Glandular polyps of the gastric fundus occur in a rare congenital disease, familial adenomatous polyposis, and are excised in all cases because of the risk of malignancy.
- Glandular polyps of the base of the stomach are common in people taking drugs to reduce stomach acid (proton pump inhibitors) Glandular polyps of the base of the stomach are dangerous only when their diameter is more than 1 centimeter The risk of cancer is still small at this time, although some doctors recommend stopping proton pump inhibitors, removing the polyp, or both.
- Adenomas arising from the glandular cells of the lining of the stomach Adenomas are associated with gastritis and familial adenomatous polyposis
Stomach polyps do not cause signs or symptoms As the stomach polyp grows, open sores may appear on its surface Rarely, a polyp blocks the passage between the stomach and the small intestine
If you have a stomach polyp, you may notice:
- Pain or tenderness when pressing on the abdomen
- Bleeding
- Anemia
When to see a doctor
