Though stomach cancer, also sometimes medically referred to as gastric malignancy, has declined in the United States over recent years, the condition still strikes roughly 30,000 Americans per year and proves fatal to more than 11,000 of these subjects. That said, this malignancy is still considered amongst the more deadly forms of the disease because it seldom manifests in early symptoms and often mimics other less serious illnesses.
Recent advancements in the pharmaceutical treatment of stomach cancer have opened new avenues for patient care, offering hope and improved outcomes. This section explores the most effective medications and therapies currently available.
Chemotherapy remains a cornerstone in the treatment of stomach cancer. Agents such as fluorouracil, capecitabine, and oxaliplatin have shown efficacy in reducing tumor size and controlling symptoms. Recent studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of combining these drugs, often referred to as FOLFOX or CAPOX regimens, in prolonging survival and improving quality of life.
Targeted therapies represent a significant breakthrough in stomach cancer treatment. Drugs like trastuzumab target specific molecules involved in tumor growth, offering a more personalized treatment approach. For HER2-positive stomach cancer, trastuzumab has been a game-changer, improving outcomes when combined with chemotherapy.
Immunotherapy has emerged as a promising option for certain types of stomach cancer. Pembrolizumab, for example, has been approved for PD-L1 positive tumors and has shown effectiveness in improving survival rates. These therapies work by enhancing the body's immune response against cancer cells, offering a novel approach to treatment.
In some cases, radiation therapy is used alongside pharmaceutical treatments. This combination can be particularly effective in controlling localized tumors and reducing symptoms like pain and bleeding.
As research continues, the landscape of stomach cancer treatment is rapidly evolving. Ongoing clinical trials and emerging therapies, including new targeted agents and immunotherapies, promise to further enhance treatment options and patient outcomes. It is crucial for patients and healthcare providers to stay informed about these advancements.
Though stomach cancer, also sometimes medically referred to as gastric malignancy, has declined in the United States over recent years, the condition still strikes roughly 30,000 Americans per year and proves fatal to more than 11,000 of these subjects. That said, this malignancy is still considered amongst the more deadly forms of the disease because it seldom manifests in early symptoms and often mimics other less serious illnesses.
Stomach Cancer Diagnosis
The first step in a potential stomach cancer diagnosis is a thorough physical examination. The attending physician will gather the patient's vital statistics, take an accounting of their family history and offer pertinent inquiries about their symptoms like specific manifestations, how long said issues have been occurring and if these events have worsened over time.
If the doctor in question suspects any possibility of stomach cancer, said healthcare professional might order diagnostic tests, such as:
Endoscopy
A small device known as an endoscope, which is equipped with a tiny camera is placed down the patient's throat and into the stomach.
Imaging Tests
Diagnostic tools like Computerized Tomography, also known as CT scans and Magnetic Resonance Imaging, MRI scans can be used to capture images of the patient's digestive tract.
Biopsy
A small collection of the patient's stomach tissue is collected and examined inside a laboratory for the presence of malignant cells.
Barium Swallow
Patients ingest a preparation containing barium sulfate, which highlights abnormalities on X-Ray machines.
The Staging Process
If the patient in question is diagnosed with a stomach malignancy, the stage of said cancer must first be determined before any specific treatment options can be employed. Stages are differentiated into four categories:
State One
The malignancy is limited to the stomach's lining or a few adjacent lymph nodes.
State Two
Cancer has penetrated into the stomach's wall and likely more distant lymph nodes.
Stage Three
The abnormal cells have extended throughout the stomach and possibly to numerous lymph nodes.
State Four
The malignancy has spread beyond the stomach to other bodily regions.
Potential Treatment Options
Specific therapeutic protocols employed by a physician will depend upon the type and stage of cancer. That said, common remedial efforts include:
Surgery
Surgical intervention can be performed to remove a portion of the stomach, and impacted lymph nodes.
Chemotherapy
Specific drugs are administered with designs on destroying malignant cells. This form of treatment is often employed in individuals whose cancers have metastasized to other bodily regions.
Radiation
varying dosages of radiation can be administered to shrink cancerous tumors. This form of therapy is sometimes used in conjunction with chemotherapy and prior to specific surgical interventions.
Palliative Care
In patients whose cancers have spread wildly, palliative care might be indicated. Said efforts are typically geared towards relieving associated pain or other untoward physical manifestations.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional consultation or advice related to your health or finances. No reference to an identifiable individual or company is intended as an endorsement thereof. Some or all of this article may have been generated using artificial intelligence, and it may contain certain inaccuracies or unreliable information. Readers should not rely on this article for information and should consult with professionals for personal advice.