Are stomach polyps dangerous?

Stomach polyps are growths of cells that form on the inner lining of the stomach. These polyps are quite rare and usually do not cause any uncomfortable signs or symptoms.

Stomach polyps are often discovered during a doctor's checkup for other reasons. Most stomach polyps don't actually become cancerous. However, some types can increase your risk of developing stomach cancer in the future. Depending on the type of stomach polyp you have, treatment may involve removing the polyp or monitoring its changes.

What causes stomach polyps, and who is most susceptible?

The causes of stomach polyps can be diverse. Accordingly, anything that causes stomach cells to grow abnormally can lead to polyp formation. Some causes of stomach polyps have been documented with significant risk factors, including:

• Chronic gastritis.
• Helicobacter pylori infection.
• Pernicious anemia.
• Prolonged damage to the gastric mucosa, such as from ulcers.
• Use of proton pump inhibitors such as Omeprazole for extended periods.

In addition, genetic factors also play a role in polyp formation. A person may have a higher risk of developing stomach polyps if there is a family history of the condition. The likelihood of developing polyps also increases if there are other inherited gastrointestinal disorders.

Anyone can develop stomach polyps; men and women of all ages can be affected. However, they tend to be more common in older people, particularly those over 65. Meanwhile, certain types of polyps, such as adenomatous polyps, are more frequently found in middle-aged women.

Signs of stomach polyps

Stomach polyps usually don't cause any signs or symptoms. However, as a stomach polyp grows larger, open sores may develop on its surface. Rarely, polyps can block the passage between the stomach and the small intestine. If a blockage occurs, signs and symptoms of stomach polyps include:

• Pain or tenderness upon pressure in the abdomen.
• Nausea.
• Blood in the stool.
• Anemia.

Gastric polyps are growths of cells that form on the inner lining of the stomach.

Are stomach polyps dangerous?

The level of danger varies depending on the type of polyp a patient has. This depends on many factors, including the specific type of polyp.

If it's a hyperplastic polyp: This is the most common type of polyp and is closely associated with gastritis caused by H. pylori bacteria. These polyps usually don't recur and rarely develop into cancer.

Polyps smaller than 0.5 cm: Can be monitored without removal, and H. pylori treatment is recommended.

Polyps measuring 0.5 cm or larger: Endoscopic removal and treatment for H. pylori infection.

In this case, doctors will recommend that patients undergo regular endoscopic examinations every 6 months to check for H. pylori infection and assess the effectiveness of treatment.

If it's a basal glandular polyp: This is common in patients using PPIs to reduce stomach acid. Polyps larger than 1 cm, with surface ulcers, or located in the antrum should be surgically removed and biopsied. The larger the polyp, the higher the risk of malignant transformation.

For familial adenomatous polyposis: This type has a genetic component and is quite rare. The following signs may indicate familial adenomatous polyposis:

• Detecting polyps before age 40.
• Multiple polyps: There are many polyps.
• Polyps in the gastric antrum.
• There may also be polyps in the duodenum or other locations in the digestive tract.

These patients should undergo a complete gastrointestinal endoscopy for examination. If multiple gastrointestinal polyps have been diagnosed, family members (parents, siblings, and children) should also be screened for the condition (if present).

Regarding adenomatous polyps: Adenomatous polyps have a high probability of being a precursor to stomach cancer. They are often associated with atrophic gastritis or chronic gastritis. This type of polyp can be found anywhere in the stomach but is most commonly found in the antrum.

Adenomatous polyps, once detected, should be surgically removed. After removal, follow-up with a gastroscopy should be done once a year.

Gastric polyps are a cause for great concern for patients. Large polyps, adenomatous polyps, or adenomatous polyps, which have a high potential for malignancy, should all be removed. Follow-up with gastroscopy as directed by a doctor is essential for monitoring polyp recurrence and for early detection of precancerous lesions.

Depending on the individual, doctors will prescribe the appropriate treatment. If it is a single, small lesion, gastric polyps can be removed during endoscopy. However, if there are many polyps, they are large, or have unusual gross shapes, making cancer difficult to rule out, and removal during endoscopy is challenging, the doctor will consider surgery.

In summary: Gastric polyps are abnormal growths in the lining of the stomach wall. The causes of gastric polyps are still unknown, and although they do not cause symptoms, some cases can progress to cancer. Therefore, regular check-ups and screenings, especially for middle-aged individuals or those at high risk, are necessary.

Source: https://giadinh.suckhoedoisong.vn/polyp-da-day-co-nguy-hiem-khong-172241218160037303.htm