Linit Plastic

Linitis plastica: a rare stomach disease

Linitis plastica, also known as linitis plastica or linitis plastica gastritis, is a rare and serious stomach condition. The term "plastic linite" comes from the Greek words "linon" (linen) and "-it", which means "something woven from threads." It reflects the peculiarity of this condition, when the walls of the stomach become thick, hard and inelastic, resembling dense tissue.

Plastic linitis is characterized by the formation of dense fibrous tissue in the walls of the stomach, which leads to thickening and reduction of its volume. As a result, the stomach loses its natural ability to stretch and absorb food, which leads to disruption of its functioning. Plastic linitis is often diagnosed in the later stages, when there is already a significant narrowing of the gastric cavity and the spread of fibrous tissue.

The reasons for the development of linitis plastica are not fully understood. However, it is known that this condition is most often associated with stomach cancer. Some studies also show a link between linitis plastica and Helicobacter pylori infection, a bacterium that can cause inflammation of the stomach.

Symptoms of linitis plastica may be indistinguishable from other stomach diseases, making it difficult to diagnose. However, some characteristic signs include a gradual decrease in appetite, rapid satiety when eating, nausea, vomiting, persistent pain or discomfort in the stomach, weight loss for no apparent reason, and regurgitation of food.

Treatment for linitis plastica often consists of surgery, as this disease is often associated with stomach cancer. Surgery may involve removing part or all of the stomach (gastrectomy), depending on the extent of the disease and the spread of the tumor. Chemotherapy and radiation therapy may also be used in addition to surgery.

In conclusion, linitis plastica is a rare and severe gastric disease characterized by thickening and contraction of the stomach wall due to the formation of dense fibrous tissue. Early diagnosis and timely treatment play an important role in improving the prognosis for patients with linitis plastica. If you suspect you have this disease, it is important to see your doctor for a detailed examination and appropriate treatment.