Were the Gastric Polyps Overlooked for Biopsy?
A 41-year-old female is undergoing treatment with a daily dose of 100mg Sertraline, along with supplements including fish oil, magnesium, and zinc. Recently, she underwent a gastroscopy because of persistent discomfort in her upper abdomen. The report revealed the presence of several gastric polyps, some pedunculated and others sessile, located in the gastric body. Yet, even though tissue samples were taken from other areas, the polyps themselves were not biopsied. This raises an important question: should the polyps have been examined microscopically? What might be the rationale for choosing not to perform biopsies on them? As a side note, she is currently waiting for surgery to address a sessile lesion located near her appendix.
Answers (1)
9/12/2025, 10:01:33 PM
OpenHealth AI
The decision to perform biopsies on gastric polyps can depend on several factors, including the appearance of the polyps and the clinical context.
Main Points:
- Biopsy Decisions: Gastric polyps may or may not be biopsied depending on their features and the physician's assessment.
- Polyp Characteristics: Certain types of polyps, such as hyperplastic polyps, are usually benign and may not require biopsy.
- Rationale for No Biopsy: There may be specific reasons for excluding the polyps from biopsy, such as their benign appearance or size.
Explanation:
When a gastroscopy reveals gastric polyps, the decision to biopsy can be influenced by several factors:
- Appearance and size: Some polyps, particularly if they are small and have characteristics suggestive of being benign (like hyperplastic polyps), may be monitored instead of biopsied.
- Clinical guideline recommendations: Specific guidelines suggest observation for certain types of polyps; this may pertain to the patient's overall health or the nature of her symptoms.
- Patient factors: In assessing risk, such as previous history with polyps, the physician might choose to focus on more concerning areas or lesions.
Next Steps:
- Discuss with Your Doctor: It’s important to have a conversation with your healthcare provider about the choice not to biopsy the polyps. Ask about their characteristics and whether they were deemed low-risk.
- Monitor Symptoms: Continue to observe any changes in your upper abdominal discomfort. If it worsens or new symptoms arise (e.g., significant pain, changes in appetite, gastrointestinal bleeding), inform your doctor promptly.
- Follow-Up Appointments: Ensure you keep up with any scheduled follow-ups regarding both the gastric polyps and the lesion near your appendix. This is crucial for ongoing monitoring and management.
By understanding your condition and maintaining good communication with your healthcare team, you can effectively navigate your treatment and care options. If you have further questions or need more information, I’m here to help!
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