Abstract
Studies on “micro-elevation” of the gastric mucosa were reported. Under dissecting microscope, 53 “micro-elevations” were found in 55 resected stomachs which were stained by AH method. “Micro-elevation” showed sessile elevated appearance, 0.7-2.8 mm in diameter, composed of swelling finger-like processuses. “Micro-elevation” was mainly located on the fundic gland area or on the intermediate zone. Histological features of “micro-elevation” were similar to those of so-called “gastric hyperplastic polyp”. To analyze microvascular architectures of “micro-elevation” under dissecting microscope, Microphil was injected to the arteries of the 10 resected stomachs. Many dilatated and coiled capillaries were observed in the swollen finger-like processuses of “micro-elevations”, which might show red appearance under endoscopical observation. These microvascular structures were similar to those seen in the “gastric hyperplastic polyp”. Cell cycle analysis using BrdU revealed widening of the regenerative zone of the glands of the “micro-elevation” and S-phase endothelial cells of the capillaries, which suggested the growing potential of “micro-elevation”. This “micro-elevation” might be the same as what endoscopists call “polypous bud”, a small red spot observed on the gastric mucosa.
