Can Helicobacter pylori positivity lead to gastric polyps?

helicobacter pylori positivity may lead to gastric polyps. Helicobacter pylori infection is one of the common causes of gastric polyp formation, mainly promoting polyp formation through mechanisms such as chronic inflammatory stimulation and gastric mucosal hyperplasia. Gastric polyps are usually classified into inflammatory polyps, hyperplastic polyps, adenomatous polyps, etc. Among them, Helicobacter pylori infection is closely related to hyperplastic polyps. After Helicobacter pylori infection, the toxins and enzymes produced by the bacteria can damage the gastric mucosal barrier, leading to chronic gastritis. Long term inflammatory stimulation can lead to abnormal proliferation of gastric mucosal epithelial cells, forming proliferative polyps. This type of polyp mostly occurs in the antrum of the stomach, with a small volume and smooth surface. The probability of cancer is low, but it may cause digestive symptoms such as bloating and dull pain. After eradicating Helicobacter pylori, some proliferative polyps can self regress. In rare cases, Helicobacter pylori infection may indirectly increase the risk of adenomatous polyps by affecting gastric acid secretion, promoting gastrin release, and other pathways. Adenomatous polyps belong to precancerous lesions, especially when their diameter exceeds 1 centimeter or accompanied by intestinal metaplasia, caution should be taken. Helicobacter pylori infection can also synergize with other factors, such as long-term use of proton pump inhibitors, bile reflux, etc., to promote the formation of gastric polyps.

It is recommended that Helicobacter pylori positive patients undergo regular gastroscopy examinations, and when polyps are found, biopsy or endoscopic resection can be performed simultaneously. Avoid high salt and pickled foods in daily life, quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption, and reduce gastric mucosal irritation. After eradicating Helicobacter pylori, a follow-up breath test should be conducted to confirm the efficacy, and the stomach condition should be followed up according to medical advice.