Gastritis with metaplasia. Gross specimen of a stomach affected by gastritis, showing inflammation of the stomach lining (mucosa). This has resulted in a change in tissue type where the cells that normally line the stomach are replaced by those found in the small intestine, a process is known as metaplasia. Metaplastic changes in chronic gastritis may become dysplastic, a growth disorder where cells do not conform to any particular morphology. If this involves the whole depth of the epithelium (the inner lining of the stomach) then it is predisposed to cancer (the risk of developing cancer is higher). Treatment includes taking antacids, avoiding alcohol and quitting smoking.