2- Stomach

Gastric Polyps

Gastric polyps are described as nodules or masses that distinctly project above the level of the surrounding mucosa. They can vary in type, but the following are the most significant classifications:

Inflammatory and Hyperplastic Polyps

• Collectively make up 75% of all gastric polyps.

• Typically arise in the context of chronic gastritis, which is a long-term inflammation of the stomach lining.

• These polyps are often multiple and characteristically have an ovoid shape, generally measuring less than 1 cm in diameter.

• Upon microscopic examination, these polyps show irregular dilated glands.

• The lamina propria, which is the connective tissue layer beneath the epithelium, usually appears edematous, indicating swelling due to fluid accumulation, and exhibits variable degrees of acute and chronic inflammation.

Fundic Gland Polyps

• The incidence of fundic gland polyps has increased significantly, particularly due to the widespread use of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs).

• This increase is likely attributed to enhanced gastrin secretion, which occurs in response to reduced acid production from the gastric lining due to the action of PPIs.

• Fundic gland polyps are characterized as well-circumscribed and typically arise in the gastric body and fundus.

• These polyps occur in multiple formations and feature cystically dilated, irregular glands lined by flattened parietal and chief cells, which are types of cells in the stomach responsible for gastric acid secretion and enzyme production, respectively.