Gastritis - chronic

Alternative names:

chronic gastritis

Definition:

An inflammation of the lining of the stomach that occurs gradually.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Chronic gastritis may be caused by prolonged irritation from the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), infection with the bacteria Helicobacter pylori, pernicious anemia, an autoimmune disorder, degeneration of the lining of the stomach with age, or chronic bile reflux.

Many people with chronic gastritis have no symptoms of the condition. Risk factors include a history of pernicious anemia, blood or lymph system disorders, age over 60 years and use of NSAIDs. The incidence is 2 out of 10,000 people.