multifocal atrophic gastritis

Multifocal atrophic gastritis (MAG)

Multifocal atrophic gastritis (MAG) is the most common form of chronic atrophic gastritis among populations at high risk for developing gastric cancer, and it strongly associates with the presence of HP infections.

A high intake of salt and nitrate and smoking contribute to its development.

The development of atrophy determines the two main divergent out-comes of HP-related gastritis.

Individuals who do not develop atrophy have an increased risk of duodenal ulcers but not of gastric cancer.

Those who develop atrophy are at risk of gastric ulcers, mainly located on the lesser curvature around the incisura angularis, and they may develop intestinal metaplasia, dysplasia, and intestinal-type gastric adenocarcinoma.

The progression of the gastritis to carcinoma involves a series of well-defined stages.

MAG first appears on the lesser curvature at the incisura.

Later, atrophic foci appear along the lesser curvature and on both sides ofthe antral–corpus junction in the shape of an inverted V.

In untreated patients the atrophy may spread to the corpus.

Histologically, MAG consists of superficial gastritis, regenerative epithelial changes, glandular loss, intestinal metaplasia, and atrophy.

See also

 chronic gastritis