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Gastric Adenocarcinoma

Our locally trusted, specialized gastric adenocarcinoma care offers state-of-the-art diagnostics and personalized treatment plans, ensuring comprehensive support for patients across every stage of stomach cancer, all delivered with compassionate expertise at GastroDoxs right here in our vibrant local community.

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Texas Medical Board
Harris County Medical Society
American College of Gastroenterology
American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
Memorial hermann
Houston Methodist leading Medicine
HCA Houston Healthcare
Bharat Pothuri
Symptoms

What is Gastric Adenocarcinoma?

Gastric adenocarcinoma is the most common form of stomach cancer, arising from the glandular cells that line the stomach. It is generally classified into two main subtypes: diffuse type, which spreads through the stomach wall without forming a distinct mass, and intestinal type, which grows as a solid tumor. Rarely, tumors may resemble endocervical tissue. Identifying your subtype helps guide the most effective treatment plan. Early detection significantly improves outcomes.

Common Symptoms

Symptoms often develop slowly and can mimic less serious conditions. If you notice any of the following signs persisting, seek evaluation:

  • Ongoing indigestion or persistent heartburn
  • Stomach pain, pressure, or discomfort
  • Feeling full after small meals (early satiety)
  • Unintentional weight loss
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Dark, tarry stools or blood in vomit

Causes

Several factors can increase your risk of developing gastric adenocarcinoma. While one single cause is often hard to pinpoint, these contributors are well established:

  • Chronic Helicobacter pylori infection
  • Diets high in salty, smoked, or preserved foods
  • Family history of stomach cancer
  • Cigarette smoking or heavy alcohol use
  • Long-standing inflammation of the stomach lining (chronic gastritis)
Treatment

Treatment Options for Gastric Adenocarcinoma in Katy

Treatment includes surgery, drug therapies, radiation, and supportive care:

  • Surgery: Partial or total gastrectomy removes the tumor and nearby lymph nodes to achieve clear margins.
  • Chemotherapy: Pre-operative (neoadjuvant) or post-operative (adjuvant) chemo helps shrink tumors and reduce recurrence risk.
  • Radiation Therapy: External beam radiation targets residual cancer cells, often used alongside chemo for better local control.
  • Targeted & Immunotherapy: Drugs such as HER2 inhibitors or checkpoint inhibitors attack specific tumor markers or boost the immune response.
  • Endoscopic Treatments: For very early tumors, endoscopic mucosal resection or submucosal dissection can remove superficial lesions without open surgery.
  • Nutritional Support: Dietitian?guided plans ensure you maintain weight and nutrient intake, with supplements as needed.
  • Symptom Management: Pain control, anti?nausea medications, and anemia treatment improve quality of life during therapy.
  • Follow-Up & Surveillance: Regular endoscopies and imaging monitor for recurrence and manage late effects of treatment.

Why Choose GastroDoxs?

Concerned about stomach symptoms or your risk of gastric cancer? At GastroDoxs in Katy, our expert team combines advanced diagnostics with compassionate, personalized care to guide you through every step-from testing and diagnosis to treatment and ongoing support. Don't wait to get the answers and care you deserve. Book your appointment with our gastric cancer specialists today and take control of your digestive health.

1.5K

Patients Treated

We've successfully treated more than 1.5K patients, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.

20Y

Years of Experience

With over 20 years of experience, GastroDoxs has been a trusted provider of gastroenterology care, focusing on delivering the best outcomes for patients

Bharat Pothuri

About the Author

Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is gastric adenocarcinoma diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves an upper endoscopy to visualize the stomach lining and take biopsies. Imaging studies such as CT or MRI scans may follow to assess tumor size, location, and spread.

What does chemotherapy do?

Chemotherapy uses anti-cancer drugs to shrink tumors, kill remaining cancer cells, and reduce the risk of recurrence. It may be given before surgery (neoadjuvant) or after surgery (adjuvant).

What's the difference between diffuse and intestinal types?

Diffuse type spreads through the stomach wall without forming a distinct mass, making it harder to detect early. Intestinal type grows as a discrete tumor or lump, often resembling other gastrointestinal cancers.

Can diet affect risk?

Yes. Diets high in salty, smoked, or processed foods have been linked to higher stomach cancer risk. Conversely, a diet rich in fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains may offer protective benefits.

Is H. pylori linked to cancer?

Yes. Chronic infection with Helicobacter pylori can damage the stomach lining and increase the risk of gastric adenocarcinoma. Eradication therapy can lower that risk.

What's the survival rate?

Survival rates vary by stage at diagnosis. Early-stage disease has significantly better outcomes, with five-year survival rates improving when the cancer is found before it spreads.

Can this cancer be mistaken for something else?

Yes. Rare subtypes and early lesions can resemble benign ulcers or other gastrointestinal conditions. Expert pathology review and specialized testing ensure accurate diagnosis.

How often should high-risk people be screened?

Individuals at elevated risk-such as those with a strong family history or known precancerous conditions-may be advised to undergo endoscopic screening every 1-2 years.

What support is available?

Support services include nutritional counseling, symptom management (e.g., pain control, anti-nausea therapy), and emotional or psychosocial support through counseling or support groups.

How do I find a specialist in Katy?

Contact GastroDoxs to schedule an appointment with our gastric cancer team in Katy. Our specialists provide expert evaluation, personalized treatment planning, and ongoing care.

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