What to Do if Gastric Cancer Spreads to the Intestines in the Late Stage
Introduction
Gastric cancer, also known as stomach cancer, is a type of cancer that begins in the stomach. It is the fifth leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. In the United States, there are an estimated 26,560 new cases of gastric cancer and 11,140 deaths from the disease each year.
Gastric cancer can spread to other parts of the body, including the intestines. When this happens, it is called metastatic gastric cancer. Metastatic gastric cancer is a serious condition, but there are treatments available that can help to improve the quality of life and extend life expectancy.
Symptoms of Metastatic Gastric Cancer
The symptoms of metastatic gastric cancer can vary depending on the location of the metastases. However, some common symptoms include:
Abdominal pain
Nausea and vomiting
Diarrhea or constipation
Weight loss
Fatigue
Loss of appetite
Night sweats
Fever
Diagnosis of Metastatic Gastric Cancer
Metastatic gastric cancer is diagnosed with a combination of tests, including:
Physical examination
Blood tests
Imaging tests, such as CT scans, MRI scans, and PET scans
Biopsy
Treatment of Metastatic Gastric Cancer
The treatment of metastatic gastric cancer depends on the location and stage of the cancer, as well as the patient's overall health. Treatment options may include:
Surgery
Chemotherapy
Radiation therapy
Targeted therapy
Immunotherapy
Surgery
Surgery is the primary treatment for metastatic gastric cancer that is confined to the intestines. The goal of surgery is to remove all of the cancer that is visible. However, surgery is not always possible if the cancer has spread to other parts of the body.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is a type of medication that kills cancer cells. It is often used to treat metastatic gastric cancer that has spread to other parts of the body. Chemotherapy can be given intravenously (IV) or orally.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells. It is often used to treat metastatic gastric cancer that has spread to the bones or other organs. Radiation therapy can be given externally or internally.
Targeted Therapy
Targeted therapy is a type of medication that targets specific molecules that are involved in the growth and spread of cancer cells. It is often used to treat metastatic gastric cancer that has certain genetic mutations.
Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy is a type of medication that helps the body's own immune system to fight cancer cells. It is often used to treat metastatic gastric cancer that has not responded to other treatments.
Prognosis for Metastatic Gastric Cancer
The prognosis for metastatic gastric cancer depends on the location and stage of the cancer, as well as the patient's overall health. The five-year survival rate for metastatic gastric cancer is about 5%. However, with treatment, many patients can live for several years after diagnosis.
Coping with Metastatic Gastric Cancer
Coping with metastatic gastric cancer can be difficult. However, there are resources available to help patients and their families. These resources can include:
Support groups
Counseling
Financial assistance
Palliative care
Conclusion
Metastatic gastric cancer is a serious condition, but there are treatments available that can help to improve the quality of life and extend life expectancy. Patients with metastatic gastric cancer should work with their doctor to develop a treatment plan that is right for them.
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