Q: Which doctor should I consult for a gastric cancer?
A: You should consult a gastroenterologist and an oncologist.
Q: What are the parts of the stomach?
A: The stomach is situated in between the oesophagus and the small intestine. It consists of 2 main areas. The proximal stomach consists of the cardia (uppermost area closest to the oesophagus where gastric juices are made), the fundus (place where undigested food is stored and gases needed for chemical digestion of food is released) and the body (bulk of the digestion occurs). The distal stomach consists of the antrum (food is mixed with the gastric juice here) and the pylorus (valve that controls the emptying of the contents into the small intestine)
Q: Which are the areas does stomach cancer extend or metastasize into?
A: Stomach cancer can spread in different directions depending on its origin. It can grow into nearly lymph vessels and nodes or into nearby organs like the esophagus. In very advanced stages it can travel through the bloodstream and cause cancer in distant organs like the liver, lungs and bones.
Q: Can stomach cancer be cured?
A: Depending on the stage of the cancer, the chances that cancer recurs can be controlled. A cure is possible up till stage 3. Stage 4 is difficult to cure as the cancer has spread to other organs.
Q: What is metastatic stomach cancer?
A: A stage 4 stomach cancer that has spread to other organs of the body is a metastatic stomach cancer. Surgery is usually not an option and treatment involves chemotherapy and radiation. The goal of the treatment is to alleviate symptoms and prolong life - this known as palliative care. This care imparts comprehensive support to cancer patients by preventing, managing, and relieving the symptoms of cancer and its treatment’s side effects as well as to their family, friends, and caregivers.
Q: What are lymph nodes an where are they located?
A: Lymph nodes are tiny bean shaped structures that fight infections. They can be present in the stomach. The prognosis of stomach cancer patients depends on how many lymph nodes have been affected. A count of only 1-2 cancerous lymph nodes means a better survival rate that a count of say 7-8 cancerous cells.
