Menetrier’s Disease (Giant Hypertrophic Gastritis)

What is Menetrier’s Disease (Giant Hypertrophic Gastritis)

Menetrier’s disease, also known as Giant Hypertrophic Gastritis, is a rare, chronic condition characterized by massive overgrowth (hypertrophy) of the stomach’s mucosal folds — mainly in the fundus and body of the stomach. This leads to excessive mucus secretion, loss of protein, and reduced acid production.

Pathophysiology

The gastric mucosa becomes thickened and enlarged, with giant rugal folds visible on endoscopy.
There is hyperplasia (overgrowth) of mucous-secreting cells and decrease in acid-secreting (parietal) cells.
The disease often results in protein loss through the stomach wall, leading to hypoproteinemia and edema.
Some studies associate it with Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection (in children) or H. pylori (in adults).

Clinical Features

Epigastric pain or discomfort after eating
Loss of appetite, nausea, and vomiting
Swelling (edema) of legs or face due to protein loss
Weight loss and weakness
Anemia (sometimes due to bleeding from erosions)
Low stomach acid (hypochlorhydria)

निदान

Endoscopy: Thickened gastric folds resembling “cerebral convolutions.”
Biopsy: Foveolar hyperplasia (mucous cell proliferation), cystic dilation of glands, and inflammation.
Protein studies: Low serum albumin levels.
Imaging (Barium meal): Markedly thickened gastric mucosa.

होम्योपैथिक दृष्टिकोण

In Homeopathy, Menetrier’s disease is treated on the basis of chronic gastric irritation, mucosal hypertrophy, and constitutional susceptibility. The aim is to restore mucosal balance, control excessive secretion, and address the underlying systemic disorder.

Commonly Indicated Remedies

1. Phosphorus:

For chronic gastric catarrh with burning in stomach, vomiting of water or mucus, and desire for cold drinks.
Patient feels weak, empty sensation in stomach.
Often indicated when the mucosa is inflamed and prone to bleeding.

2. Lycopodium clavatum:

For chronic gastritis with fullness, bloating, and flatulence, especially after small meals.
Better from warm drinks; worse 4–8 p.m.
Useful when liver involvement or digestive weakness accompanies mucosal hypertrophy.

3. Nux Vomica:

For gastric irritation caused by overeating, alcohol, or stimulants.
Sour eructations, nausea, and frequent ineffectual urging to vomit or stool.
Suitable for business-type individuals under stress with sedentary habits.

4. Arsenicum Album:

Burning pain in stomach relieved by warm drinks.
Intense weakness, restlessness, and anxiety about health.
Indicated when erosion and ulceration appear due to mucosal degeneration.

5. Carbo Vegetabilis:

For bloating, heaviness, and belching after meals with great flatulence.
Stomach feels full and distended; useful in advanced cases with weak digestion and gas accumulation.

6. Kali Bichromicum:

Suited for thick, ropy mucus formation in the stomach and chronic gastric catarrh.
Pain in small spots; vomiting of stringy mucus.
Indicated when the gastric mucosa becomes thick and hypertrophic with mucus plugging.

Diet and Management

Light, easily digestible food — avoid spicy, fried, and fermented foods.
High-protein diet to compensate for loss.
Avoid alcohol, tobacco, and caffeine.
Manage stress and maintain regular eating patterns.
Regular follow-ups and constitutional remedy treatment are essential.