Diagnosis of Chronic Gastroenteritis

Chronic gastroenteritis is a chronic inflammatory condition of the gastrointestinal tract, often presenting with recurrent bloating, belching, and poor appetite. Without timely diagnosis and treatment, the inflammation may worsen, progress to atrophic gastritis, and even increase the risk of malignancy. Clinically, multiple diagnostic methods such as gastroscopy, pathology, and Helicobacter pylori testing are required to clarify the cause and establish treatment strategies.

Diagnostic Basis of Chronic Gastroenteritis

1. Gastroscopy as the Primary Method
Gastroscopy provides a direct view of the gastric mucosa and is the main method for confirming chronic gastritis. It can reveal hyperemia, edema, erosion, and atrophy, helping to determine the lesion site and severity.

2. Biopsy for Pathological Evidence
During gastroscopy, mucosal tissue can be collected for pathological examination to assess atrophy, intestinal metaplasia, or dysplasia, serving as an important tool for identifying precancerous lesions.

3. Helicobacter pylori Testing
Tests such as breath tests, serology, or tissue staining for H. pylori are critical indicators for identifying chronic inflammation triggers. Infected patients should undergo eradication therapy.

4. Barium Meal Radiography as Auxiliary Assessment
Though less direct than gastroscopy, barium studies can provide reference value for gastric motility disorders, abnormal peristalsis, or delayed gastric emptying, suitable for patients unable to tolerate gastroscopy.

5. Digestive Function Tests
Tests such as gastric juice analysis, gastric emptying tests, and gastrin level measurements help evaluate gastric acid secretion and mucosal damage, providing evidence for treatment planning.

6. Blood Tests and Inflammatory Markers
Some patients may present with mild anemia, elevated ESR, or increased C-reactive protein due to inflammation. While not specific, these markers help assess disease activity.

7. Fecal Occult Blood and Stool Examination
In cases of mucosal erosion or bleeding, fecal occult blood tests may be positive. Stool examination also aids in ruling out other gastrointestinal diseases.

8. Ultrasound and Abdominal CT to Exclude Complications
For patients with associated cholecystitis, pancreatitis, or liver dysfunction, abdominal ultrasound or CT scans provide comprehensive assessment and help exclude other organic lesions.

9. Clinical Symptoms and Medical History

Patients often report recurrent epigastric discomfort, postprandial pain, belching, or weight loss. Combining symptom patterns with lifestyle and dietary history can support preliminary suspicion of chronic gastritis.

Conclusion

The diagnosis of chronic gastroenteritis requires multiple diagnostic methods and cannot rely solely on symptoms. Experts at United Life International Medical Center emphasize that standardized gastroscopy and pathology are the keys to diagnosis. Combined with patient-specific symptoms and laboratory findings, they allow early detection, precise intervention, and prevention of disease progression.