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Gastric Lymphoma
According to the American Cancer Society's Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma Overview, gastric lymphoma arises when malignant lymphocytes invade the stomach lining. This expert guide with Dr. Nghia Nguyen at GastroDoxs, Houston, highlights key symptoms, diagnosis, and personalized treatment strategies for improved outcomes.
Dr. Nghia Nguyen, DO, is a board-certified gastroenterologist providing advanced digestive care in the Greater Houston area. He earned his medical degree from the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed both his Internal Medicine residency and Gastroenterology fellowship at the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley. Dr. Nguyen specializes in treating conditions such as acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and liver disorders.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
H. pylori infection (a common stomach bacteria)
Chronic stomach inflammation
Weakened immune system (e.g., HIV infection or post-transplant)
Family history of lymphoma
Autoimmune diseases such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis
Signs and Symptoms
Unexplained weight loss
Upper abdominal pain or pressure
Nausea, vomiting, or persistent heartburn
Feeling full quickly when eating
Blood in the stool (sometimes hidden)
How Dr. Nghia Nguyen Diagnoses Gastric Lymphoma Presenting with?
Dr. Nguyen uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Physical Exam
He discusses your epigastric pain, weight changes, prior H. pylori infection, autoimmune history, and any family history of lymphoma.
Blood Tests
Complete blood count to check for anemia, H. pylori antibody testing, and basic metabolic panel to assess overall health.
Upper Endoscopy and Biopsy
Direct visualization of the stomach lining to identify suspicious lesions.
Targeted biopsies of any abnormal areas for histopathological confirmation of lymphoma cells.
Advanced Imaging Studies
CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis to evaluate gastric wall thickening and regional lymph node enlargement.
PET scan to detect metabolic activity and rule out distant spread.
ICD-10 Coding
Appropriate use of code C83.11 for primary gastric lymphoma ensures accurate records and billing.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for gastric lymphoma.
1. Lifestyle and Supportive Care
Regular monitoring (watchful waiting) for indolent lymphoma forms
Nutrition counseling to support strength and manage treatment side effects
Blood count support with transfusions or growth factors as needed
2. Medications and Systemic Therapies
Antibiotic therapy to eradicate H. pylori in early-stage MALT lymphoma
Dr. Nghia Nguyen, DO, is a board-certified gastroenterologist providing advanced digestive care in the Greater Houston area. He earned his medical degree from the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed both his Internal Medicine residency and Gastroenterology fellowship at the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley. Dr. Nguyen specializes in treating conditions such as acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and liver disorders.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the survival rate for gastric lymphoma?
It depends on the stage. If caught early, the 5-year survival rate can be over 70%.
How is gastric lymphoma diagnosed?
Only a biopsy taken during an endoscopy can confirm the diagnosis; symptoms alone aren't enough.
Can treating H. pylori cure my lymphoma?
In some early-stage cases, antibiotics against H. pylori can lead to remission.
What does ICD-10 code C83.11 mean?
It's the medical billing code assigned to primary gastric lymphoma.
How long does treatment last?
Treatment duration varies by stage: antibiotics may run for weeks, while chemotherapy can continue for several months.
Will I need surgery?
Not always. Many patients respond well to endoscopic resection or non-invasive therapies.
When should I see a doctor?
If you experience persistent belly pain, unexplained weight loss, or other stomach symptoms lasting more than two weeks, schedule an evaluation.
External Resource
American Cancer Society - Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma Overview: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/non-hodgkin-lymphoma.html
