How is Stomach cancer diagnosed?

How is Stomach Cancer Diagnosed?

Stomach cancer, also known as gastric cancer, is a serious condition that requires early detection for effective treatment. Diagnosing stomach cancer involves a combination of medical history evaluation, physical examination, and various diagnostic tests. It is important to consult a healthcare professional if you experience persistent symptoms or have risk factors for stomach cancer.

Medical History and Physical Examination

During the initial consultation, your doctor will review your medical history and ask about any symptoms you may be experiencing. They will inquire about your family history of cancer, previous medical conditions, and lifestyle habits. This information helps in assessing your risk factors for stomach cancer.

Following the medical history evaluation, a physical examination will be conducted. The doctor will examine your abdomen for any abnormalities, such as lumps or swelling. They may also check for enlarged lymph nodes or signs of fluid accumulation.

Diagnostic Tests

If stomach cancer is suspected based on the medical history and physical examination, your doctor may recommend further diagnostic tests to confirm the diagnosis. These tests may include:

1. Upper Endoscopy: This procedure involves inserting a thin, flexible tube with a camera (endoscope) through your mouth and into your stomach. It allows the doctor to visualize the stomach lining and take tissue samples (biopsy) for further examination.



2. Imaging Tests: Various imaging tests can help visualize the stomach and surrounding areas. These may include:




• Computed Tomography (CT) Scan: This scan uses X-rays and computer technology to create detailed cross-sectional images of the stomach and nearby structures.


• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): MRI uses powerful magnets and radio waves to generate detailed images of the stomach and surrounding organs.


• Positron Emission Tomography (PET) Scan: This scan involves injecting a small amount of radioactive material into the body, which is then detected by a special camera. It helps identify areas of increased metabolic activity, which may indicate cancerous cells.


• Barium Swallow: In this test, you will drink a liquid containing barium, which coats the stomach and makes it visible on X-rays. This helps identify any abnormalities in the stomach lining.





3. Blood Tests: Blood tests may be conducted to assess your overall health and check for specific markers that indicate stomach cancer. These markers include carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) and cancer antigen 19-9 (CA 19-9).



4. Stool Tests: Stool samples may be analyzed for the presence of blood or other substances that could indicate stomach cancer.

Biopsy and Pathology

If abnormalities are detected during the diagnostic tests, a biopsy will be performed to confirm the presence of stomach cancer. During an upper endoscopy, the doctor will collect small tissue samples from the stomach lining. These samples are sent to a laboratory for analysis by a pathologist. The pathologist examines the tissue under a microscope to determine if cancer cells are present and to identify the type and stage of the cancer.

Early detection of stomach cancer is crucial for successful treatment. If you experience persistent symptoms or have risk factors, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and diagnosis.