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Adenocarcinoma

Adenocarcinoma is a type of cancer that begins in glandular cells, which produce mucus and other fluids. It commonly affects organs such as the lungs, colon, prostate, and stomach. Early detection is crucial for effective treatment and better outcomes.

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Rishi Chadha

About the Expert

Dr. Rishi Chadha, MD is a board‑certified gastroenterologist who specializes in preventive gastroenterology, colorectal cancer screening, and minimally invasive endoscopic procedures. He completed his fellowship at Sunrise Health GME in Las Vegas and previously trained in internal medicine at St. Vincent’s Medical Center in Connecticut.

What Is Adenocarcinoma?

Adenocarcinoma is a type of cancer that originates in glandular cells'those that produce mucus or other fluids. It can develop in various organs such as the lungs, colon, pancreas, and prostate. When these cells begin to grow uncontrollably, they form malignant tumors.

Common Causes and Risk Factors

  • Smoking and exposure to air pollution (risk for lung adenocarcinoma)
  • Diets high in red or processed meats (risk for colorectal adenocarcinoma)
  • Family history of cancer or inherited genetic mutations
  • Chronic inflammation (for example, Barrett's esophagus in esophageal adenocarcinoma)
  • Obesity and metabolic disorders (linked to pancreatic adenocarcinoma)
  • Age over 50 and male gender in certain organ sites

Signs and Symptoms

  • Persistent cough or chest pain (lung adenocarcinoma)
  • Blood in sputum or shortness of breath
  • Blood in stool or changes in bowel habits (colorectal adenocarcinoma)
  • Unexplained weight loss and fatigue
  • Abdominal pain, bloating, or difficulty swallowing
  • Jaundice or changes in liver enzymes (pancreatic or biliary adenocarcinoma)

How Dr. Rishi Diagnoses Adenocarcinoma?

Dr. Chadha uses a step-by-step approach:

Medical History and Physical Exam

He reviews your personal and family medical history, symptoms (like cough, weight changes or abdominal pain), lifestyle factors and any inherited risks.

Imaging Studies

  • Chest X-ray or abdominal ultrasound to spot obvious masses.
  • CT scan for detailed cross-sectional images of lungs, colon, pancreas or prostate.
  • PET-CT to assess metabolic activity and detect any spread to lymph nodes or distant organs.

Endoscopy and Biopsy

Depending on the tumor location, he performs bronchoscopy, colonoscopy or endoscopic ultrasound to visualize lesions and obtain tissue samples for histologic confirmation.

Laboratory & Molecular Testing

Pathology analysis classifies the adenocarcinoma subtype. Advanced molecular profiling (EGFR, KRAS, ALK, MSI) and special stains identify rare forms'such as signet ring cell adenocarcinoma to guide targeted therapies.

Rishi Chadha
Treatment

Our Houston team offers a full range of care for adenocarcinoma.

1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications

  • Increase fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to support overall health
  • Limit red and processed meats to help reduce colorectal cancer risk
  • Quit smoking and avoid secondhand smoke to lower lung cancer risk
  • Stay active with regular walking or gentle exercise programs

2. Medications

  • Targeted therapy to block specific cancer growth pathways
  • Chemotherapy to shrink tumors and control disease spread
  • Immunotherapy to enhance your body's natural defenses against cancer

3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures

  • Endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) to remove early-stage tumors
  • Laparoscopic or robotic-assisted surgery for faster healing and less pain
  • Radiofrequency ablation to destroy small tumors in the liver, lungs, or other areas
Rishi Chadha

About the Author

Dr. Rishi Chadha, MD is a board‑certified gastroenterologist who specializes in preventive gastroenterology, colorectal cancer screening, and minimally invasive endoscopic procedures. He completed his fellowship at Sunrise Health GME in Las Vegas and previously trained in internal medicine at St. Vincent’s Medical Center in Connecticut.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is adenocarcinoma cancer?

Adenocarcinoma is a type of cancer that starts in glandular (mucus- or fluid-producing) cells, often occurring in the lungs, colon, pancreas, or prostate.

Can lung adenocarcinoma be cured?

When detected early, lung adenocarcinoma can often be cured with surgery and targeted treatments, sometimes combined with chemotherapy or immunotherapy.

What is the ICD-10 code for rectal adenocarcinoma?

The ICD-10 code for primary malignant neoplasm of the rectum (including rectal adenocarcinoma) is C20.

What is signet ring cell adenocarcinoma?

Signet ring cell adenocarcinoma is a rare, aggressive subtype in which cancer cells contain large mucin vacuoles that push the nucleus to one side, resembling a signet ring.

Can a healthy diet prevent adenocarcinoma?

While a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can lower your risk, it cannot completely prevent adenocarcinoma. Regular screening and healthy lifestyle habits help most.

How long is recovery after minimally invasive surgery?

Most patients go home within 1-3 days after laparoscopic or robotic surgery and fully recover in about 2-4 weeks, depending on individual health factors.

How is lung adenocarcinoma diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves chest imaging (CT or PET scans) followed by a tissue biopsy, often obtained via bronchoscopy or needle biopsy, to confirm cancer type.

Can I get a second opinion from Dr. Chadha?

Yes. Many Houston patients consult with Dr. Chadha for a second opinion before starting treatment to ensure they have the most comprehensive care plan.

What are the side effects of chemotherapy?

Chemotherapy may cause fatigue, nausea, hair loss, and lowered blood counts. Our team provides supportive therapies to manage these side effects.

When should I see a specialist?

If you experience a persistent cough, unexplained weight loss, blood in your stool, or any other concerning symptom, schedule an evaluation with a specialist right away.

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