Stomach Adenocarcinoma: Symptoms and Treatments
Stomach adenocarcinoma, a prevalent form of gastric cancer, arises from the glandular cells lining the stomach. Recognizing its symptoms and understanding the available treatment options is crucial for timely diagnosis and effective management.
What is Stomach Adenocarcinoma?
Stomach adenocarcinoma accounts for the majority of gastric cancer cases. It originates in the mucous-producing glandular cells that form the inner lining of the stomach. The incidence of stomach adenocarcinoma varies globally, with higher rates observed in East Asia, Eastern Europe, and parts of Central and South America.
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Get A Second OpinionSymptoms of Stomach Adenocarcinoma
The symptoms of stomach adenocarcinoma can be subtle in the early stages, often resembling common gastrointestinal disorders, which can delay diagnosis. Key symptoms include:
Early Symptoms
Advanced Symptoms
As the disease progresses, symptoms become more pronounced:
- Weight Loss: Unexplained weight loss without changes in diet or physical activity.
- Abdominal Pain: Persistent pain or discomfort in the abdomen, often above the navel.
- Vomiting: Occasional vomiting, which may include blood.
- Anaemia: Fatigue and weakness due to internal bleeding leading to anemia.
Causes and Risk Factors
Understanding the causes of stomach adenocarcinoma aids in identifying high-risk individuals and developing preventive strategies.
Genetic Factors
Hereditary genetic mutations, including mutations in the CDH1 gene, contribute to a predisposition to stomach adenocarcinoma. Familial history of gastric cancer increases risk.
Lifestyle and Environmental Factors
- Diet: High intake of smoked, salted, and pickled foods has been linked to increased risk.
- Helicobacter pylori Infection: Chronic infection with H. pylori is a significant risk factor.
- Smoking and Alcohol Consumption: Both habits elevate the risk of developing gastric cancer.
- Previous Gastric Surgery: Post-surgical changes in the stomach environment can lead to adenocarcinoma.
Stages of Stomach Adenocarcinoma
The progression of stomach adenocarcinoma is categorized into stages, which guide treatment decisions.
Stage 0
Known as carcinoma in situ, cancer is confined to the innermost layer of the stomach.
Stage I
Cancer has invaded the stomach lining and possibly nearby lymph nodes.
Stage II
Cancer has penetrated deeper layers of the stomach wall or spread to more lymph nodes.
Stage III
Extensive invasion into the stomach wall or nearby organs, with significant lymph node involvement.
Stage IV
Cancer has metastasized to distant organs, such as the liver, lungs, or bones.
Diagnosis of Stomach Adenocarcinoma
Accurate diagnosis involves a combination of endoscopic procedures, imaging, and histological analysis.
Endoscopic Examination
An endoscopy allows for direct visualization of the stomach lining and biopsy of suspicious lesions.
Imaging Tests
CT scans and PET scans assess the extent of the disease and detect metastases.
Pathology and Histology
Biopsy samples are analyzed to determine the type and grade of cancer. Poorly differentiated adenocarcinoma indicates aggressive behaviour and poorer prognosis.
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Book an AppointmentTreatment Options for Stomach Adenocarcinoma
The treatment of stomach adenocarcinoma is multifaceted, involving surgical, chemotherapeutic, and targeted therapy approaches.
Surgical Interventions
- Subtotal Gastrectomy: Removal of part of the stomach containing the tumour.
- Total Gastrectomy: Complete removal of the stomach, often with lymph node dissection.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy may be administered before surgery (neoadjuvant) to shrink tumours or after surgery (adjuvant) to eliminate residual cancer cells.
Targeted Therapy
Targeted drugs, such as trastuzumab, are used for tumours overexpressing HER2 protein. These therapies aim to inhibit cancer cell growth with fewer side effects than traditional chemotherapy.
Radiation Therapy
Used in conjunction with chemotherapy or surgery to control local tumour growth and relieve symptoms.
Prognosis and Survival Rates
The prognosis for stomach adenocarcinoma depends on the stage at diagnosis, tumour characteristics, and patient health. Early-stage detection significantly improves survival rates.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the symptoms of stomach adenocarcinoma?
Symptoms may include persistent abdominal pain, changes in appetite, and weight loss, indicating gastric cancer.
2. What causes stomach adenocarcinoma?
Causes often include chronic gastritis, H. pylori infection, and dietary factors contributing to stomach lining changes.
3. How is stomach adenocarcinoma diagnosed?
Diagnosis usually involves endoscopy, imaging studies, and biopsy to assess cancer presence and stage.
4. What are the treatment options for stomach adenocarcinoma?
Treatment may include surgical resection, chemotherapy, and targeted therapies based on cancer stage and patient health.
5. What are the stages of stomach adenocarcinoma?
Staging varies from localized to advanced cancer, significantly influencing treatment options and prognosis.
