What are gastric polyps?
Gastric polyps are small wart-like growths on the lining of the stomach. Most are harmless, though some may develop into cancer if left untreated.
How often do doctors find gastric polyps?
Gastric polyps are usually found incidentally during a routine upper endoscopy and are detected in about 2-5% of all endoscopy screenings.
What is the ICD-10 code for gastric polyps?
The ICD-10 code for gastric polyps is K31.8, which falls under “Other specified diseases of stomach and duodenum.”
Do gastric polyps lead to cancer?
Most gastric polyps are benign. However, adenomatous polyps have a small potential to become malignant and should be monitored or removed as advised.
How are gastric polyps diagnosed?
Diagnosis is typically made during an upper endoscopy, which allows direct visualization of the stomach lining and biopsy of any suspicious polyps.
Can H. pylori infection cause gastric polyps?
Yes. Chronic infection with H. pylori is linked to inflammatory polyps, and eradication therapy plays an important role in preventing their progression.
How are gastric polyps treated?
Treatment depends on the size, number, and type of polyps. Options include observation, endoscopic removal, antibiotic therapy for H. pylori, or medication adjustments as needed.
Can lifestyle changes help prevent polyps?
Yes. Preventive steps include avoiding long-term unnecessary use of proton pump inhibitors, quitting smoking, maintaining a balanced diet, and promptly treating H. pylori infections.
How often do I need follow-up endoscopies?
The frequency of follow-ups depends on the polyp’s size, type, and pathology. Your gastroenterologist will create a tailored monitoring plan.
Where can I find a gastric polyp specialist near Houston?
GastroDoxs in Houston provides expert diagnosis and treatment of gastric polyps by board-certified gastroenterologists using advanced endoscopic technology.
Medically Reviewed by
Dr. Bharat Pothuri, MD, FACG
| Updated 03-17-2026