pathophysiology

pathophysiology
Description

Ms. Johnson, age 57, was referred to the gastroenterologist for chronic digestive problems. For at least a year, she said, her stomach ached after eating a small meal. It seemed like the dull pain she experienced, and the sensation of fullness, had increased recently. Ms. Johnson also felt abdominal cramping, and sometimes nausea, at times other than after eating.

After taking a complete history and performing a physical examination, the gastroenterologist ordered several tests. Her conclusion was that Ms. Johnson had chronic gastritis caused by an infection with the bacterium Helicobacter pylori.

QUESTIONS:

How common is a bacterial cause of chronic gastritis?
Are other conditions sometimes the cause of chronic gastritis?