atrophic gastritis

  I have several autoimmune illnesses including atrophic gastritis which was originally found through a test for parietal cells, and confirmed with biopsy. Any information that you can give me on this disease would be greatly appreciated!
  I also have Hashimoto's, CFIDS, and as yet to be determined autoimmune connective tissue disease.  I understand from my immunologist (who suspects I may have Lupus) there is an increased risk for stomache cancer and I have read in a lupus book that it is usually assoc. with Sjogren's disease.  I also know that it can be assoc. with pernicious anemia (which my father has, but my Schilling's test was neg.)  Autoimmune diseases definitely have a family connection with us as my sister has M.S. too.
  My gasteroenterologist does not give me any information on it and seems to think it is no big deal.  All he has told me is that I'm the youngest person he has ever seen with it (I'm 45).  I was on a baby dose of eneteric coated aspirin once daily to thin blood, but had to stop it due to the stomache pain it caused.
  That is the extent of what I know.  Can you elaborate on any of this for me and/or fill me in on more?  I am especially interested in any ideas you may have re: the autoimmune connective tissue disorder aspect of this and if you are familiar with it ever being associated with Lupus.  
  Also, any potential problems with atrophic gastritis or course of action recommended?
  Many thanks!
  Sincerely,
  Wren
Dear Wren,
Chronic atrophic gastritis is a disorder of the stomach where gland loss and intestinal metaplasia (change in the lining of the stomach-the lining appears more like the intestine). It is found in the stomach of 80-90 percent of patients with gastric cancer. One type of chronic atrophic gastritis is associated with pernicious anemia (sometimes associated with other autoimmune disorders). Pernicious anemia is associated with a higher risk of gastric carcinoma as compared to the general population. Another type of chronic atrophic gastritis is called multifocal atrophic gastritis and is the predominant type in most populations at high risk of gastric cancer. Helicobacter pylori infection is frequently found in patients with multifocal atrophic gastritis. However, treatment of Helicobacter pylori infection does not reverse multifocal atrophic gastritis. The routine surveillance for patients with chronic atrophic gastritis in the United States is not currently recommended, since the number of diagnosed cases of gastric cancer would be very small.However, if dysplasia (glandular distortion) is encountered on tissue biopsy of the stomach close follow-up is recommended.I hope you find this information helpful.
This response is being provided for general informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice or consultation. Always check with your personal physician when you have a question pertaining to your health.
If you would like to be seen at our institution please call 1-800-653-6568, our Referring Physicians