Several rare diseases can affect the stomach. These conditions often present unique challenges due to their infrequent occurrence, making diagnosis and treatment more complex. Let's explore some examples:
Rare Stomach Diseases: A Closer Look
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Menetrier Disease: This rare disorder involves the overgrowth of mucous cells in the stomach lining, leading to significant changes in the stomach's appearance and function. https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases/menetrier-disease/
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Eosinophilic Gastritis: A chronic condition characterized by an excessive number of eosinophils (a type of white blood cell) in the stomach lining. This inflammation can cause various digestive problems. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/23571-eosinophilic-gastritis
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Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP) related Stomach Polyps: While often associated with colon cancer, FAP can also lead to the development of stomach polyps, increasing cancer risk. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/stomach-polyps/symptoms-causes/syc-20377992
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Malrotation of the Midgut (MALS): Although rarer in adults, MALS involves a defect in a ligament below the diaphragm, affecting the stomach's position and potentially causing digestive issues. https://www.ucihealth.org/blog/2021/12/teen_survives_rare_stomach_disorder/
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Whipple Disease: While affecting the entire digestive system, this rare bacterial infection significantly impacts digestion and can manifest with stomach-related symptoms. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/whipples-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-20378946
Other conditions listed in the provided references, like Celiac Disease, Congenital Sucrase-Isomaltase Deficiency (CSID), and Diverticulosis/Diverticulitis, while affecting the digestive system, aren't solely limited to the stomach and might be considered more common relative to the conditions above.
It's crucial to remember that accurate diagnosis requires consultation with a healthcare professional. Symptoms can vary greatly, and proper evaluation is necessary to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.