The evaluation of gastritis begins with a history and physical examination.

The physical exam in someone with gastritis is usually normal.

Physical findings in someone with advanced gastritis may include:

• Blood in the stools on rectal examination
• Black stool
• Upper abdominal tenderness

Tests may be necessary to detect complications, such as bleeding.

Tests that may be used to evaluate gastritis include:

• Complete blood count
• Coagulation profile
• Serum amylase
• Serum lipase
• Serum gastrin levels:
• Can detect Zollinger-Ellison syndrome
• Tests for Helicobacter pylori infection:
• Helicobacter pylori breath test
• Helicobacter pylori blood test
• Helicobacter pylori biopsy test
• Helicobacter pylori stool test
• Stool guaiac test for intestinal bleeding
• Upper GI series:
• A barium x-ray study of the stomach and upper intestines
• Upper GI endoscopy:
• Allows direct inspection of the stomach and duodenum

For more information:

• Peptic ulcer disease evaluation
• Reflux esophagitis evaluation