Patients in the High Desert region who are exhibiting the signs, and symptoms of stomach cancer should make it a point to schedule a consultation appointment with an expert general surgeon.
Only the best general surgery professional will be able to provide you with an accurate diagnosis as to which type of stomach cancer you might have, and what treatment options may be most beneficial for you. At this time, most doctors are not aware of what causes stomach cancer.
Early research findings are showing that there is a correlation between a diet rich in smoked, salty, or pickled foods and the prevalence of stomach cancer. Apple Valley patients should discuss their own personal risk factors and medical history with their general surgeon at the time of the consultation appointment.
What are the Different Types of Stomach Cancer?
Lymphoma — Lymphoma is a form of stomach cancer that begins in the cells of the immune system. There are only a small number of immune system cells that are located in the lining of the stomach, so this is considered a rare form of stomach cancer.
Adenocarcinoma — This is the most common form of stomach cancer in the United States. Adenocarcinoma is a form of stomach cancer that develops in the glandular cells. These cells are the cells that line the inside of the stomach, and their function is to secrete mucus that forms a protective layer along the lining of the stomach. This layer protects the stomach from the acidic juices in the organ.
Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor (GIST) — This is a rare form of stomach cancer, but patients should be aware that it is a possible diagnosis. The GIST is a cancer that begins in the nervous system tissues. There are a set of specific nervous system cells within the stomach in which a gastrointestinal stromal tumor can form, but it is not very common.
Carcinoid — There are hormone-producing cells that also are located in the stomach, and cancer can form in these specific cells. This type of stomach cancer is referred to as carcinoid cancer.
Most patients will not have to worry about this type of cancer developing in their stomach, as it is considered to be a rare form of stomach cancer. However, patients should be aware that it is a possibility and that it could cause their own particular type of stomach cancer.
At the time of your diagnosis, your surgeon will be able to identify which type of stomach cancer you are suffering from. It is essential to identify the type of stomach cancer before the surgeon begins to explore treatment options.
Each individual patient will have a unique set of options available to them for their treatment, and it’s important to discuss the benefits and risks of those options with the surgeon. For more information about the types of stomach cancer and the treatment options that might be available to you, set up a consultation appointment with a general surgeon today.
