What do these endoscopy results mean?

Hi - I am a 27 year old female and I have been having some problems with my stomach, pretty much with peptic ulcer that did not respond to treatment with H2 blocker, so I got an endoscopy yesterday.  This is what the paper they gave me when I left said they found: "Erythema and congestion in the antrum compatible with gastritis."

What does that mean?  I was really out of it when they came to talk to me.  I know they took biopsy to test for H. Pylori and I believe he mentioned he was going to test for Celiac too, even though I was blood tested for the about a year ago and did not have it (ended up with a final diagnosis of IBS).  He said he wants to see if it's from me eating something I'm allergic to?  Is testing the biopsy sample more accurate?

[S. Kaul, MD]

Hi there!

The endoscopy report just describes an inflammation (erythema & congestion) of the inner lining of the stomach wall (gastritis) towards the lower end. This could be caused due to infection, allergic reaction, trauma such as excessive acidity ulceration etc. A biopsy involves taking a piece of the tissue and examining it directly under the microscope. It may give more detailed results in addition to an endoscopic appearance.
Hope this is helpful.

Take care!