Understanding Different Types of Gastric Cancer and Treatments

What do you know about gastric cancer? Understanding the different types and treatments can be vital. Dive deeper into the world of gastric cancer to uncover more about this complex disease.

Gastric cancer, also known as stomach cancer, is a condition where malignant cells form in the lining of the stomach. While it can occur at any age, it is most common in older adults and is often asymptomatic in the early stages, making diagnosis challenging. Fortunately, advancements in research and treatment have improved the outlook for many patients.

Types of Gastric Cancer

Gastric cancer can be classified into several types, each differing in its origin and behaviour. The most prevalent type is adenocarcinoma, accounting for approximately 90-95% of all stomach cancers. This type develops from the cells of the mucosa, the innermost lining of the stomach.

Other less common types include lymphomas, which originate from the lymphatic tissue in the stomach, gastrointestinal stromal tumours (GIST), which form in the stomach’s connective tissue, and neuroendocrine tumours, which begin in the hormone-producing cells of the stomach. Identifying the type of gastric cancer is crucial in determining the most effective treatment plan.

• Adenocarcinoma
• Lymphomas
• Gastrointestinal stromal tumours
• Neuroendocrine tumours

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Recognising the symptoms of gastric cancer can be challenging, as they are often vague and easily mistaken for other gastrointestinal issues. Common symptoms include persistent stomach pain, difficulty swallowing, loss of appetite, unexplained weight loss, and nausea or vomiting.

Early diagnosis is key to improving survival rates. Doctors may use a combination of endoscopy, biopsy, imaging tests, and blood tests to confirm a diagnosis. The stage of cancer is determined by the extent of its spread within the stomach and to other parts of the body, which is critical in guiding treatment decisions.

• Persistent stomach pain
• Difficulty swallowing
• Loss of appetite
• Unexplained weight loss
• Nausea or vomiting

Treatment Options for Gastric Cancer

Treatment for gastric cancer typically involves a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. The choice of treatment depends on the cancer’s type, stage, and location, as well as the patient’s overall health and preferences.

Surgical options may include partial or total gastrectomy, where part or all of the stomach is removed. Chemotherapy may be used before surgery to shrink the tumour or afterwards to eliminate remaining cancer cells. Radiation therapy is sometimes used in conjunction with chemotherapy to enhance its effectiveness.

For more advanced cases, targeted therapies and immunotherapy may be considered, which focus on specific cancer cell mechanisms or stimulate the immune system to attack cancer cells. Participating in clinical trials may also offer access to new and emerging treatments.

Sources:
1. American Cancer Society
2. National Cancer Institute