Microscopic alterations of the gastric mucosa in preneoplastic lesions as assessed by new-generation endocytoscopy

Chronic atrophic gastritis with/without intestinal metaplasia is defined as a gastric precancerous condition (GPC) that increases the risk of gastric cancer according to the severity of atrophy [1]. Advanced endoscopic imaging permits accurate visualization of the mucosa and optical diagnosis of GPC [2]. Endocytoscopy introduces a further step, providing ultrahigh magnification images and in vivo histologic assessment of nuclear and cellular structures; however, data on endocytoscopic characterization of GPC are lacking [3].