Gastric carcinoma

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Gastric Carcinoma

Gastric carcinoma (pronounced: gas-trik kar-si-no-ma), also known as stomach cancer, is a type of malignant tumor that originates in the stomach. The term "gastric" is derived from the Greek word "gaster," meaning stomach, and "carcinoma" is derived from the Greek "karkinos," meaning crab, which is used to describe the crab-like spread of cancer cells.

Causes

The exact cause of gastric carcinoma is unknown, but several risk factors have been identified, including Helicobacter pylori infection, certain dietary factors, smoking, and certain genetic conditions.

Symptoms

Symptoms of gastric carcinoma may include dyspepsia (indigestion), anorexia (loss of appetite), weight loss, and abdominal pain. In advanced stages, the disease may cause anemia due to internal bleeding, or jaundice if the cancer has spread to the liver.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of gastric carcinoma typically involves a combination of endoscopy, where a thin tube with a camera is inserted down the throat to view the stomach, and biopsy, where a small sample of tissue is taken for examination under a microscope. Other tests may include blood tests, imaging tests such as CT scan or MRI, and staging to determine the extent of the disease.

Treatment

Treatment for gastric carcinoma depends on the stage of the disease and may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, or a combination of these. The goal of treatment is to remove or destroy the cancer cells, control symptoms, and improve quality of life.

Prognosis

The prognosis for gastric carcinoma varies depending on the stage of the disease at diagnosis, the patient's overall health, and the effectiveness of treatment. Early detection and treatment can significantly improve survival rates.

See also

External links

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