Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 1, 2025

Recognition of Epidermal Transglutaminase by IgA and Tissue Transglutaminase 2 Antibodies in a Rare Case of Rhesus Dermatitis
Published on: December 15, 2011
Early autoimmune gastritis presenting with a normal endoscopic appearance
Tohru Kotera1, Masayoshi Yamanishi2, Ryoji Kushima3
1Department of Medical Examination, Uji-Tokushukai Medical Center, Uji, Kyoto, Japan. tohru.k326@hotmail.co.jp.
Early-stage autoimmune gastritis (AIG) can present without endoscopic changes. This case highlights the importance of serological markers and histopathology for diagnosing AIG in patients with a history of vitamin B12 deficiency.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Immunology
- Pathology
Background:
- Autoimmune gastritis (AIG) is an autoimmune disease affecting the stomach lining.
- Early diagnosis is crucial for managing potential complications like vitamin B12 deficiency.
Observation:
- A 66-year-old man with autoimmune thyroiditis was evaluated for suspected AIG.
- He had a history of vitamin B12 deficiency and positive autoantibodies (anti-parietal cell and anti-intrinsic factor).
- Endoscopic examination revealed a normal appearance, with no visible atrophic or inflammatory changes.
Findings:
- Histopathology showed mild atrophic changes and lymphocytic infiltration in the gastric corpus.
- Focal destruction of parietal cells and pseudo-pyloric metaplasia were observed.
- Elevated gastrin levels and normal pepsinogen I levels were noted.
Implications:
- This case demonstrates that early-stage AIG may not be detected by endoscopy alone.
- Serological markers and detailed histopathological analysis are essential for accurate AIG diagnosis.
- Highlights the need for vigilance in patients with autoimmune conditions and a history of B12 deficiency.
Related Concept Videos
Gastritis-I: Introduction and Types
Acute gastritis presents as a sudden inflammation triggered by various stressors to the stomach lining, such as exposure to corrosive agents, local irritants like aspirin and other NSAIDs, alcohol consumption, radiation therapy, physical trauma, severe burns, sepsis,...
Gastritis-II: Pathophysiology
In acute gastritis, the gastric mucosa becomes swollen and red and undergoes superficial erosion. Superficial ulceration may lead to bleeding.
In chronic gastritis, persistent or repeated insults lead to chronic inflammatory changes and, eventually, thinning or atrophy of the gastric tissue.
Gastritis can stem from various causes, each...
Gastritis III: Clinical Manifestations and Management
Clinical manifestations of acute gastritis
The patient with acute gastritis may have a rapid onset of symptoms, such as epigastric pain or discomfort, dyspepsia, anorexia, hiccups, or nausea and vomiting, which can last from a few hours to a few days. Erosive or hemorrhagic gastritis may cause bleeding, which may manifest as blood in vomit or as...
Peptic Ulcer Disease III: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies
Few clinical manifestations differentiate gastric ulcers from duodenal ulcers. Distinctions in the location, timing, and pain relief are crucial for healthcare providers in differentiating between gastric and duodenal ulcers during clinical assessments.
Barrett Esophagus-II: Clinical Manifestations and Management
To diagnose Barrett's esophagus, healthcare providers often recommend an endoscopy for those showing symptoms of acid reflux. The procedure...
Endoscopic Procedures I: Esophagogastroduodenoscopy
During an EGD, the endoscope can be used to:

