Are Gastric Polyps Cancerous? Risks and Follow-Up Care

Q: Are Gastric Polyps Cancerous? Risks and Follow-Up Care

Hello： The physician has clearly removed the polyp, and the pathology report indicates that it is a benign polyp with no abnormalities, so there is no need to worry. <br>Changhua Hospital cares about your health. <br>Dr. <br>Tsai An-shun.

Will gastric polyps undergo malignant transformation?

Hello, Doctor! I have been experiencing long-term discomfort in my stomach, so I consulted a physician who arranged for me to undergo an endoscopy last week.
The results revealed two gastric polyps, approximately 2mm in size.
Although the attending physician mentioned that the polyps are benign and that I only have mild gastritis, I am still concerned about the possibility of those polyps undergoing malignant transformation.
MICROSCOPIC DESCRIPTION: The fragments of antral and body type mucosa contain mild chronic inflammation.
There are reactive epithelial features but no intestinal metaplasia.
Two fragments are polypoid hyperplastic foveolar epithelium.
There are also fragments of fundic gland type tissue with polypoid features.
Helicobacter pylori are not found.
DIAGNOSIS: Gastric mucosal biopsy and polypectomy specimen.
Mild chronic gastritis.
Polypoid foveolar hyperplasia.
Fundic gland polyp fragments.
Helicobacter pylori are not found.
Negative for intestinal metaplasia, dysplasia, and malignancy.
Doctor, 1.
Should I be concerned about the reactive epithelial features in the gastric body and antrum? Are they precursors to cancer? 2.
Is there a chance that polypoid foveolar hyperplasia could undergo malignant transformation? 3.
Based on the overall report, do those two polyps have the potential to become cancerous? 4.
Additionally, does the gastric tissue indicate precancerous changes? Should I schedule regular follow-up appointments? If so, how often should these follow-ups be? Thank you, Doctor! Wishing you good health!

Hui, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/01/27

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello: The physician has clearly removed the polyp, and the pathology report indicates that it is a benign polyp with no abnormalities, so there is no need to worry.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Dr.
Tsai An-shun.

Reply Date: 2017/01/27

More Info

Gastric polyps are growths that form on the lining of the stomach, and while many are benign, understanding their potential risks is crucial for effective management and follow-up care. Based on your recent endoscopic findings and pathology report, let's address your concerns regarding the nature of these polyps and the implications for your health.

1. Reactive Epithelial Features: The presence of reactive epithelial features in the gastric mucosa typically indicates a response to irritation or inflammation rather than a precancerous condition. In your case, the report mentions mild chronic inflammation, which is common in conditions like gastritis. This inflammation can arise from various factors, including dietary habits, stress, or infections (such as Helicobacter pylori, which was not found in your biopsy). While chronic inflammation can be associated with an increased risk of gastric cancer over time, it does not directly indicate a precancerous state in the absence of other risk factors.

2. Polypoid Foveolar Hyperplasia: This type of hyperplasia is characterized by an increase in the number of foveolar cells, which are the cells lining the gastric pits. Polypoid foveolar hyperplasia is generally considered benign and is not typically associated with an increased risk of malignancy. However, it is essential to monitor these lesions, especially if they change in size or appearance over time.

3. Cancer Risk of Your Polyps: The pathology report indicates that the two polyps you have are classified as fundic gland polyps and polypoid hyperplastic foveolar epithelium. Both types are usually benign and have a low risk of malignant transformation. The absence of dysplasia (abnormal cell growth) and malignancy in your biopsy results is reassuring. Therefore, the likelihood of these specific polyps becoming cancerous is very low.

4. Follow-Up Care: Given that your polyps are benign and there are no signs of precancerous changes or malignancy, regular follow-up is still advisable. The general recommendation for patients with gastric polyps is to have follow-up endoscopy every 1 to 3 years, depending on the type and number of polyps, as well as any changes in symptoms. Since you have mild chronic gastritis, it would be prudent to discuss with your physician the best follow-up schedule tailored to your specific situation.

In summary, while it is natural to be concerned about the potential for cancer with any growth, the findings from your endoscopy and biopsy suggest that your gastric polyps are benign with a low risk of malignancy. Regular follow-up with your healthcare provider will help ensure that any changes can be monitored and managed appropriately. Always feel free to discuss any new symptoms or concerns with your doctor, as they can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and current health status.

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