Diffuse Gastric Adenocarcinoma: Causes, Signs, and Treatment

Diffuse gastric adenocarcinoma is a type of cancer that originates in the cells lining the stomach. It tends to spread widely within the stomach wall, making it challenging to detect and treat. This aggressive nature can significantly impact overall health and well-being due to its potential to metastasize to other parts of the body. The diffuse growth pattern of this cancer can lead to thickening of the stomach wall and compromise its normal function, affecting digestion and nutrient absorption. 

Additionally, the invasive nature of diffuse gastric adenocarcinoma can result in serious complications and a poorer prognosis compared to other types of stomach cancer.

What are the Symptoms of Diffuse Gastric Adenocarcinoma

Diffuse gastric adenocarcinoma is a type of stomach cancer. Symptoms can vary but commonly include digestive issues and discomfort. Other signs may also be present, such as unexplained weight loss and fatigue. It's important to seek medical advice if experiencing persistent or concerning symptoms.

Common symptoms of Diffuse gastric adenocarcinoma may include:

Get a second opinion from trusted experts and makeconfident, informed decisions.

Get Second Opinion

Causes of Diffuse Gastric Adenocarcinoma

Diffuse gastric adenocarcinoma can be caused by various factors, including genetic mutations, family history of the disease, chronic inflammation of the stomach lining, infection with Helicobacter pylori bacteria, and certain lifestyle factors such as smoking and a diet high in salt-preserved foods.

Common Causes of Diffuse Gastric Adenocarcinoma:

  • Genetic Factors
  • Helicobacter pylori Infection
  • Environmental Factors
  • Diet High in Salt and Preservatives
  • Chronic Gastritis
  • Smoking
  • Obesity
  • Family History of Gastric Cancer

Types of Diffuse Gastric Adenocarcinoma

Diffuse gastric adenocarcinoma can present in various forms or types, each with its distinct characteristics and behavior. These different forms of diffuse gastric adenocarcinoma may vary in terms of their appearance under the microscope, growth patterns, and response to treatment. Understanding the various forms of this type of cancer is crucial for accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.

  • Signet ring cell type: A subtype of diffuse gastric adenocarcinoma characterized by cancer cells that contain mucin, giving them a signet ring appearance under the microscope.
  • Poorly cohesive (linitis plastica) type: This type of diffuse gastric adenocarcinoma is characterized by poorly cohesive cancer cells that infiltrate the stomach wall, leading to a thickened, leatherlike stomach lining.
  • Mucinous adenocarcinoma: A type of diffuse gastric cancer that produces excess mucin, a jellylike substance, which can contribute to the tumor's growth and spread.
  • Diffuse enteric type: This subtype of diffuse gastric adenocarcinoma resembles intestinaltype cancer and is associated with a higher prevalence of microsatellite instability.
  • Rare variants: Some diffuse gastric adenocarcinomas may exhibit rare histologic variants, such as mixed adenocarcinoma with squamous or neuroendocrine features, which can impact treatment strategies and patient outcomes.

Risk Factors

Diffuse gastric adenocarcinoma, a type of stomach cancer, has various risk factors that can increase the likelihood of developing this condition. These factors are associated with lifestyle, genetics, and medical history. Understanding these risk factors can help individuals make informed decisions about their health and potentially lower their risk of developing this type of cancer.

Risk factors for Diffuse gastric adenocarcinoma:

  • Family history of gastric cancer
  • Infection with Helicobacter pylori bacteria
  • Previous stomach surgery
  • Chronic gastritis
  • Smoking
  • Obesity
  • Diet high in salt and smoked foods
  • Aging, especially over 50 years old
  • Gender (more common in males)

Your health is everything - prioritize your well-being today.

schedule apointment Schedule Your Appointment

Diagnosis of Diffuse Gastric Adenocarcinoma

Diffuse gastric adenocarcinoma is typically diagnosed through various tests and procedures. These may involve imaging studies, laboratory tests, and endoscopic examinations. Doctors may also consider the patient's symptoms and medical history in the diagnostic process. 

The goal is to accurately detect the presence of cancer cells in the stomach lining to determine appropriate treatment options. It's crucial to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and diagnosis if you suspect any concerning symptoms.

  • Endoscopy
  • Biopsy
  • Imaging tests (CT scan, MRI, PET scan)
  • Blood tests
  • Staging laparoscopy

Treatment for Diffuse Gastric Adenocarcinoma

Treatment options for diffuse gastric adenocarcinoma typically involve a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. The specific treatment plan will depend on the stage of the cancer, the overall health of the patient, and other individual factors. Surgery is often used to remove the tumor and surrounding tissues, while chemotherapy and radiation therapy may be recommended to target any remaining cancer cells and reduce the risk of recurrence. 

In some cases, targeted therapy or immunotherapy may also be considered as part of the treatment approach. It is important for patients to work closely with their healthcare team to develop a personalized treatment plan that best suits their needs.

  • Surgery: The main treatment for diffuse gastric adenocarcinoma involves surgery to remove the tumor and surrounding tissues.
  • Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy may be used before or after surgery to shrink the tumor, kill any remaining cancer cells, or prevent the cancer from spreading.
  • Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy may be used in combination with surgery and chemotherapy to destroy cancer cells and reduce the risk of recurrence.
  • Targeted therapy: Targeted therapy drugs are designed to specifically target cancer cells, potentially leading to fewer side effects compared to traditional chemotherapy.
  • Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy works by helping the body's immune system identify and destroy cancer cells, offering a promising treatment option for some patients with diffuse gastric adenocarcinoma.
Find Our Specialists
Book Doctor Appointment
Book Free Appointment

Still have questions? Speak with our experts now!

040-68334455

Frequently Asked Questions

What is diffuse gastric adenocarcinoma?

Diffuse gastric adenocarcinoma is a type of stomach cancer that affects the lining of the stomach and can spread throughout the stomach wall.

What are the symptoms of diffuse gastric adenocarcinoma?

Symptoms may include abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, vomiting, unintentional weight loss, and difficulty swallowing.

How is diffuse gastric adenocarcinoma diagnosed?

Diagnosis is typically made through imaging tests like CT scans, endoscopy with biopsy, and sometimes laparoscopy for staging.

What are the treatment options for diffuse gastric adenocarcinoma?

Treatment may involve surgery to remove the tumor, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy.

What is the prognosis for patients with diffuse gastric adenocarcinoma?

The prognosis varies depending on the stage at diagnosis, but overall survival rates for advanced cases are lower than for early-stage disease.

Book Appointment Second Opinion WhatsApp Health Packages Find Doctors

Feeling unwell?

Request a callback!