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Gastric Adeno
Gastric Adeno (gastric adenocarcinoma) is the most common stomach cancer, arising from the stomach lining. Early detection and individualized treatment dramatically improve outcomes. At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Scott offers advanced diagnostics, tailored therapies, and supportive care for your journey.
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
What Is Gastric Adeno?
Gastric adeno, also known as gastric adenocarcinoma, is a cancer that develops in the lining of the stomach. It is the most common type of stomach cancer. Early detection and prompt treatment often lead to better outcomes.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Infection with Helicobacter pylori bacteria
Diets high in salty, smoked, or pickled foods
Family history of stomach cancer
Smoking or heavy alcohol consumption
Certain inherited genetic conditions
Age over 50
Signs and Symptoms
Persistent indigestion or heartburn
Abdominal pain or discomfort after eating
Unintended weight loss
Feeling full after small meals
Nausea or vomiting
Blood in stool or vomit
How Dr. Scott Diagnoses Gastric Adeno?
Dr. Scott uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Physical Exam
He reviews your symptoms-especially epigastric pain, difficulty eating, unintentional weight loss-and evaluates risk factors such as H. pylori infection, family history, diet, smoking, and alcohol use.
Laboratory Tests
We check for H. pylori antibodies or antigens, perform a complete blood count to detect anemia, and assess basic metabolic and liver panels to rule out other causes of abdominal pain.
Upper Endoscopy
Direct visualization of the stomach lining with a thin, flexible scope.
Targeted biopsies of any suspicious areas to confirm gastric adenocarcinoma under the microscope.
Imaging Studies
CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis to locate and measure any tumors.
PET/CT or MRI when needed to check for spread (metastasis) beyond the stomach.
Advanced Testing (if needed)
Molecular profiling of biopsy tissue to identify specific genetic markers and guide personalized, targeted therapies.
Treatment
Our Team Offers a Full Range of Care for Gastric Adeno
1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications
Nutritional counseling to maintain strength and manage treatment side effects
Smaller, frequent meals to reduce discomfort and support digestion
Avoidance of irritants like alcohol, spicy foods, and tobacco
Hydration strategies to counteract chemotherapy-induced dehydration
2. Medications
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to reduce stomach acid and promote healing
Targeted therapies based on HER2 or PD-L1 status (when applicable)
Chemotherapy regimens to shrink tumors and control spread
Anti-nausea and pain management support throughout treatment
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
Endoscopic ultrasound and biopsy for accurate diagnosis and staging
Endoscopic resection in early-stage, localized tumors
Subtotal or total gastrectomy for more advanced cancer
Coordinated care with oncology for chemotherapy and immunotherapy options
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the life expectancy with gastric adenocarcinoma?
Life expectancy varies by stage. When caught early, the five-year survival rate can exceed 60%. Regular screenings and prompt treatment improve outcomes.
What symptoms should I watch for?
Look for ongoing indigestion or heartburn, stomach pain after meals, unintentional weight loss, feeling full quickly, nausea, vomiting, or blood in vomit/stool.
What are the biggest risk factors?
Infection with H. pylori, frequent consumption of salty, smoked, or pickled foods, smoking, heavy alcohol use, a family history of stomach cancer, and being over age 50.
Is carboplatin helpful for gastric adeno?
Yes. Carboplatin is a common chemotherapy agent used to shrink gastric tumors and improve treatment response, often as part of a combined regimen.
Can diet changes help prevent or slow this cancer?
Dietary adjustments-eating more fruits and vegetables, avoiding processed, salty, smoked, or pickled foods, and having small, frequent meals-support treatment and may slow progression.
How is this cancer diagnosed?
Dr. Scott uses upper endoscopy with biopsy, imaging tests such as CT or MRI scans, and blood work to confirm the presence and extent of gastric adenocarcinoma.
