What can be found through gastroscopy?

First paragraph: content overview

Gastroscopy is an important means of diagnosing upper gastrointestinal diseases. Through the endoscope, the mucosa of the esophagus, stomach and duodenum can be directly observed to detect inflammation, ulcers, polyps, tumors and other lesions. The main inspection contents include:Inflammation and ulcers(such as gastritis, gastric ulcer),neoplastic lesions(such as gastric cancer, esophageal cancer),Structural abnormality(such as hiatal hernia) andCause of bleeding. Secondary tests may involve testing for Helicobacter pylori infection or biopsy sampling. The examination results can provide accurate basis for subsequent treatment.

Paragraph 2: Detection of inflammation and ulcers

Gastroscopy can clearly show mucosal congestion, edema or erosion, helping to diagnosechronic gastritis,Reflux esophagitisCommon inflammations. For gastric ulcers or duodenal ulcers, the size, depth and surrounding mucosal status of the ulcer can be directly observed to determine whether it is in the active bleeding or scarring stage. According to statistics, about 90% of peptic ulcers can be diagnosed through gastroscopy, and benign ulcers and malignant lesions can also be distinguished.

Paragraph 3: Screening of neoplastic lesions

Gastroscopy for early stagestomach cancerandEsophageal cancerscreening is irreplaceable. Small mucosal changes, such as local color changes, bulges or depressions, can be detected through the high-definition lens. Combined with narrow-band imaging (NBI) or staining technology, the detection rate of early cancer can be further improved. If suspicious lesions are found, a biopsy can be taken immediately for pathological analysis. Data show that the detection rate of early gastric cancer by gastroscopy can reach more than 70%.

Paragraph 4: Diagnosis of other important lesions

Gastroscopy can also identifyEsophageal varices(complications of liver cirrhosis),Achalasiafunctional diseases, andforeign matter residue(Such as fish bones, dentures). For unexplained upper gastrointestinal bleeding, gastroscopy can locate the bleeding point and implement hemostatic treatment. In addition, some gastroscope equipment supports ultrasound probes, which can assess the depth of tumor invasion (such as EUS examination).

Paragraph 5: Summary and Notes

Gastroscopy has both diagnostic and therapeutic functions and is the gold standard for upper gastrointestinal diseases. However, it should be noted that the results are affected by factors such as doctor experience and equipment resolution, and must be combined with CT or laboratory examinations when necessary. It is recommended that the general population over the age of 40 should be screened every 3-5 years, and high-risk groups (such as family history of gastric cancer) should shorten the interval. You need to fast for 8 hours before the examination, and avoid eating spicy food immediately after the operation.

Quote sources:
1. "Expert Consensus on Early Gastric Cancer Screening Process in China" (Chinese Journal of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy, 2017)
2. Japanese Gastric Cancer Society "Gastric Cancer Treatment Guidelines" (2021 Edition)
3. Electronic gastroscopy equipment (such as GIF-H290 series) produced by Olympus, Fujifilm and other manufacturers