Endoscopists' Opinions for the Management of Atrophic Gastritis and Intestinal Metaplasia

Abstract

Background/Aims: Atrophic gastritis (AG) and intestinal metaplasia (IM) are commonly encountered pathologic conditions during gastroscopy in Korea. These conditions were considered as pre-neoplastic lesions in many previous studies. Management and follow-up of these lesions have been performed arbitrarily since there are no standard guidelines. The aim of this study was to investigate the endoscopists' opinions on these conditions using web-based survey. Materials and Methods: An e-mail based survey composed of 22 questionnaires related to the clinical and endoscopic management of AG and IM was performed. Results: These questionnaires were e-mailed to 495 endoscopists and replies were obtained from 168 endoscopists. IM was more commonly diagnosed by histologic evaluation regardless of position, patient care, and experience. Most endoscopists recommended follow up endoscopy annually in IM compared to a 2 year interval in AG. Less experienced endoscopists and endoscopists caring hospitalized patients tended to not eradicate Helicobacter pylori in patients with AG and IM. Conclusions: Endoscopists approach to the patients with AG and IM differred according to their position, patient care, and experience. We need new guidelines for the surveillance and management of AG and IM in Korea.