Menetrier disease, also known as giant hypertrophic gastritis, is a rare gastrointestinal disorder characterized by the enlargement of the stomach lining. This condition is named after Pierre Eugène Ménétrier, a French physician who first described it in 1888. Menetrier disease is often associated with excessive production of gastric acid, leading to reduced stomach acid secretion and protein loss.
Although Menetrier disease is the commonly used term, it is also referred to by several other synonyms:
It is important to note that Menetrier disease is distinct from other gastric conditions, such as gastric cancer or peptic ulcers. The exact cause of Menetrier disease is unknown, but it is believed to involve an abnormal immune response or genetic factors.
Diagnosis of Menetrier disease involves a combination of clinical evaluation, imaging studies, and biopsy of the stomach lining. Treatment options are limited, and management typically focuses on alleviating symptoms and preventing complications.