A member asked:

Had an endoscopy today and heme were seen. also severe gastritis and ulcers. 4 family members died of stomach cancer. should i be concerned of heme?

4 doctors weighed in across 3 answers
Dr. Steve Martinez answered

Specializes in Breast Surgery

Priorities: Heme is another way of saying "blood". This is commonly seen with ulcers and gastritis. I would be most concerned with your family history of gastric cancer, however. Any ulcers in your stomach should be biopsied, and you should be checked for a bacterial infection called h pylori. These can both be associated with gastric cancer. Ask your gastroenterologist.

Answered 3/9/2013

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Heme: Heme is medical terminology for digested blood given gastritis and ulcers not particularly surprising.

Answered 3/11/2016

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Yes, somewhat.: This indicates that there has been bleeding in your GI tract, most likely in your stomach. You should get any ulcer biopsied, and, at least, stop the bleeding. You should get a full work-up of any ulcers, tested for h. Pylori infection, and very aggressive follow-up due to your family history, along with therapy for your gastritis. You should start your follow-up and see your doctor very soon.

Answered 3/22/2020

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Do gastric ulcer & stomach cancer look similar or different in endoscopy?

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