Stomach Polyps
Overview
Definition
A stomach polyp is a growth in the lining of the stomach. There are many different types of polyps. The types are based on where they are and how they grow. Most of the polyps are not cancerous, but some can grow into cancer.
Common types of polyps:
- Hyperplastic—most common
- Fundic gland—found in the upper part of the stomach
- Adenoma—most likely to later become stomach cancer (least common type)
Risk Factors
Most stomach polyps are more likely to occur in older adults. Your chances of stomach polyps are also higher for:
- Gastritis
- Helicobacter pylori infection
- Pernicious anemia
- Gastric ulcers
- Prior stomach surgery
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease ( GERD )
- Long term use of medicines that lower acid in the stomach
- Family history
Gastric Ulcer |
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SymptomsandDiagnosis
Treatments
Treatment
Most stomach polyps will not need to be treated. Small polyps that may have a risk of cancer will be watched. They may not need to be taken out.
Polyps that cause problems may need to be treated. This will depend on the size, number, and type of polyps.
They can be treated with:
Medication
Antibiotics may be used to help shrink the polyps.
Surgery
Large polyps or those with high risk of turning into cancer may be taken out. This can be done with:
- Endoscopy
- Gastrostomy —removal through a cut in the stomach wall
- Partial gastrectomy —partial removal of the stomach to remove multiple polyps
This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.
Edits to original content made by Denver Health.
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a (Gastric Polyps)
RESOURCES
American College of Gastroenterology http://patients.gi.org
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases https://www.niddk.nih.gov
CANADIAN RESOURCES
Canadian Association of Gastroenterology https://www.cag-acg.org
Canadian Cancer Society https://www.cancer.ca
References
Non-cancerous tumours of the stomach. Canadian Cancer Society website. Available at: http://www.cancer.ca/en/cancer-information/cancer-type/stomach/stomach-cancer/non-cancerous-tumours/?region=on. Accessed August 15, 2018.
Shaib YH, Rugge M, Graham DY, Genta RM. Management of gastric polyps: an endoscopy approach. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2013;11(11):1374-1384.
The stomach: stomach polyps. Chicago Endoscopy Center website. Available at: http://www.chicagoendoscopy.com/the-stomach.html#a4. Accessed August 15, 2018.