Role of image-enhanced endoscopy for the diagnosis of gastric intestinal metaplasia.

Abstract

Gastric intestinal metaplasia (IM) is a key precursor lesion in gastric cancer progression, as described by the Correa model. Image-enhanced endoscopy (IEE) with magnifying endoscopy has significantly improved the visualization of the mucosal surfaces and microvascular structures, aiding in the accurate diagnosis of IM. While histological evaluation remains the gold standard, IEE might provide a practical and cost-effective alternative for the risk stratification of gastric IM.