What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Enteric Duplication Cyst of Stomach
• Gastrointestinal Tract Duplication Cyst of Stomach
• GI Tract Duplication Cyst of Stomach

What is a Gastric Duplication Cyst? (Definition/Background Information)

• Gastric Duplication Cyst is a rare congenital malformation, characterized by the presence of a cyst in the stomach
• Gastric Duplication Cysts constitute approximately 4-7% of all gastrointestinal tract duplication cysts
• The exact underlying cause for the formation of such cysts is not known, but may involve abnormalities during embryonic development

Who gets Gastric Duplication Cyst? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Gastric Duplication Cyst is a rare congenital disorder. The presentation of symptoms may occur at birth
• Both males and females may be affected
• Worldwide, individuals of all racial and ethnic groups may be affected

What are the Risk Factors for Gastric Duplication Cyst? (Predisposing Factors)

• Currently, no risk factors have been clearly identified for Gastric Duplication Cysts

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases one’s chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Gastric Duplication Cyst? (Etiology)

The exact underlying cause of Gastric Duplication Cysts is currently unknown. However, researchers suspect that disturbances during embryonic development and other factors may contribute to the development of the disorder.

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Gastric Duplication Cyst?

The signs and symptoms of Gastric Duplication Cysts may include:

• Stomach pain
• Back pain
• Weight loss
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Bowel obstruction, changes in bowel movement
• Tenderness in the stomach region
• Palpable soft mass in the stomach region

How is Gastric Duplication Cyst Diagnosed?

Gastric Duplication Cysts is diagnosed on the basis of the following information:

• Complete physical examination
• Thorough medical history evaluation
• Assessment of signs and symptoms
• Laboratory tests
• Imaging studies
• Biopsy studies, if necessary

The following 3 criteria must be satisfied for a positive diagnosis of Gastric Duplication Cyst:

• The stomach and cyst share a wall
• The cyst is enveloped in smooth muscle, that is continuous with the smooth muscle layer of the stomach
• The epithelial lining of the cyst wall is gastric or other gastric mucosa

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Gastric Duplication Cyst?

The complications of Gastric Duplication Cysts may include:

• Hemorrhage in the gastrointestinal tract
• Perforation of stomach wall
• Torsion, causing abdominal pain and distension
• Malignant transformation

Complications may occur with or without treatment, and in some cases, due to treatment also.

How is Gastric Duplication Cyst Treated?

The treatment options for Gastric Duplication Cysts may include:

• Drainage of cyst (though it is not a preferred treatment option)
• Complete surgical excision of the cyst and repair of the wall shared with the stomach

How can Gastric Duplication Cyst be Prevented?

• At the present time, the exact cause and risk factors for Gastric Duplication Cysts are not known, and therefore, no preventive methods or guidelines exist for this condition
• Active research is currently being performed to explore the possibilities for treatment and prevention congenital disorders such as Gastric Duplication Cysts
• Regular medical screening at periodic intervals with tests and physical examinations are recommended

What is the Prognosis of Gastric Duplication Cyst? (Outcomes/Resolutions) 

• The prognosis of Gastric Duplication Cysts is dependent upon the severity of the signs and symptoms and associated complications, if any
• Individuals with mild conditions have better prognosis than those with severe symptoms and complications
• Typically, the prognosis may be assessed on a case-by-case basis

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Gastric Duplication Cyst:

The following DoveMed website link is a useful resource for additional information:

http://www.dovemed.com/diseases-conditions/rare-disorders/