This is characterized by diffuse inflammation and various degrees of mucosal and glandular atrophy. There are two types of atrophic gastritis. Type A is associated with pernicious anemia and involve the body more than antrum. Gastric acid level is low or absence with very high gastrin level, which may lead to carcinoid tumors. Type B tends to involve the antrum and usually with normal gastrin level.
Some patients have absence acid.
Hypergastrinemia Appropriate hypergastrinemia is caused by loss of feedback inhibition of gastrin release by luminal acid. The antral gastrin cells respond appropriately by overproducing gastrin. This can be seen in patients with atrophic gastritis, pernicious anemia, retained gastric antrum and antisecretory therapy such as drug or post vagotomy. It can be a gnawing or burning pain or a dull ache. The pain can last for minutes or hours.