Endoscopic features of gastric inflammatory fibroid polyps.

OBJECTIVES

The inflammatory fibroid polyp (IFP) is a rare benign lesion that can occur throughout the digestive tract. The aim of this study is to describe endoscopic features of gastric IFPs and to determine the clinical value of endoscopic removal.

METHODS

Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy was performed in 13 patients with gastric IFPs. The IFPs were resected either by endoscopic removal or gastrectomy, and confirmed histologically as IFPs. To evaluate the diagnostic value, endoscopic features of the lesions were analyzed.

RESULTS

The most frequent features were semi-pedunculated protrusions (61.5%), covered with a smooth surface of normal mucosa (100%), and located in the antrum or prepyloric region (100%). Bridging folds were observed in three of the 13 lesions (23.1%). The central surface of all 10-mm or larger lesions had an erythematous depression (three lesions), ulceration (five lesions), or white cap on the polyp (one lesion). Endoscopic biopsies failed to confirm IFP in any lesions.

CONCLUSIONS

IFPs are commonly visualized as semi-pedunculated elevations, covered with a smooth surface of normal mucosa, and located in the antrum or prepyloric region. The 10-mm or larger lesions have central changes. Endoscopic removal of gastric IFPs is a useful method for both accurate diagnosis and treatment in view of negative results with the use of standard biopsy forceps.