1. Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST) are rare tumors that can develop in the wall of the gastrointestinal tract and can be cancerous (malignant) or non-cancerous (benign). Risk factors include inherited genetic mutations and rare genetic syndromes.
2. Symptoms of GIST tumors include blood in stool or vomit, abdominal pain, fatigue, difficulty swallowing, and feeling full after eating small amounts of food. Diagnosis involves physical exams, CT scans, MRI scans, endoscopic ultrasounds, and biopsies of suspicious tissue.
3. Treatment depends on the stage and location of the tumor and may involve surgical resection as the only potentially curative treatment
The journey of breast cancer discovery and research - October 2015 awareness ...Julie Decock
This seminar was given by QBRI cancer researchers to students at Qatar University and Hamad Bin Khalifa University in Qatar to raise awareness about breast cancer research and treatment.
This slide will help u get a detailed knowledge and information about colon cancer, its etiology signs symptoms prevention investigation diagnosis and treatment along with nursing management.
The pancreas is a gland behind your stomach and in front of your spine. It produces juices that help break down food and hormones that help control blood sugar levels. Cancer of the pancreas is the fourth-leading cause of cancer death in the U.S.
Here is a presentation about Pancreatic Cancer.
Steve Jobs and Ralph Steinman suffered from pancreatic cancer.
November : pancreatic cancer awareness month.
A few cases are included ,and these demonstrate different presentations of the same disease.
Pancreatic cancer is often indolent till late stages and is mostly advanced by the time it is diagnosed.
Surgical treatment is the mainstay of therapy . Chemotherapy can be tried. Intra operative radiation therapy is also being used in some centers. However the long term survival is low
Recent advancements in metastatic colorectal cancer treatmentKindai University
In this presentation, the presenter tries to provide an overview of the current established treatment strategies, based on their clinical outcomes as well as their mechanisms, limitations that remain to be overcome, and their future applicability for the treatment of human Colorectal Cancer.
The symptoms of pancreatic cancer go undetected in the body and grow to the extent making the case of the patient terminal. In most of the cases, symptoms begin to surface only after the cancer becomes completely malignant. Adenocarcinoma is the medical term, assigned to such cancer and it is one the few forms of cancer, which has the lowest rate of recovery.
The Skinny on he Role of Endoscopy in Bariatric SurgeryPatricia Raymond
Obesity epidemic; so where does endoscopy fit in with current bariatric surgery in preoperative assessment and management of complications, and what's under development for primary endoscopic bariatric techniques-- get the skinny here!
The journey of breast cancer discovery and research - October 2015 awareness ...Julie Decock
This seminar was given by QBRI cancer researchers to students at Qatar University and Hamad Bin Khalifa University in Qatar to raise awareness about breast cancer research and treatment.
This slide will help u get a detailed knowledge and information about colon cancer, its etiology signs symptoms prevention investigation diagnosis and treatment along with nursing management.
The pancreas is a gland behind your stomach and in front of your spine. It produces juices that help break down food and hormones that help control blood sugar levels. Cancer of the pancreas is the fourth-leading cause of cancer death in the U.S.
Here is a presentation about Pancreatic Cancer.
Steve Jobs and Ralph Steinman suffered from pancreatic cancer.
November : pancreatic cancer awareness month.
A few cases are included ,and these demonstrate different presentations of the same disease.
Pancreatic cancer is often indolent till late stages and is mostly advanced by the time it is diagnosed.
Surgical treatment is the mainstay of therapy . Chemotherapy can be tried. Intra operative radiation therapy is also being used in some centers. However the long term survival is low
Recent advancements in metastatic colorectal cancer treatmentKindai University
In this presentation, the presenter tries to provide an overview of the current established treatment strategies, based on their clinical outcomes as well as their mechanisms, limitations that remain to be overcome, and their future applicability for the treatment of human Colorectal Cancer.
The symptoms of pancreatic cancer go undetected in the body and grow to the extent making the case of the patient terminal. In most of the cases, symptoms begin to surface only after the cancer becomes completely malignant. Adenocarcinoma is the medical term, assigned to such cancer and it is one the few forms of cancer, which has the lowest rate of recovery.
The Skinny on he Role of Endoscopy in Bariatric SurgeryPatricia Raymond
Obesity epidemic; so where does endoscopy fit in with current bariatric surgery in preoperative assessment and management of complications, and what's under development for primary endoscopic bariatric techniques-- get the skinny here!
colorectal cancer, epidemiology, risk factors, sign and symptom,
pathophysiology, complications, assessment and diagnostic findings, medical and nursing interventions
Welcome to today's discussion on a crucial topic that concerns the well-being of individuals worldwide. Today, we'll discuss an important aspect of cancer diagnosis – identifying the 10 signs that pancreatic cancer has spread.
Pancreatic cancer, known for its aggressive nature, requires early detection and appropriate medical attention to ensure the best chances of successful treatment.
By understanding these 10 signs that pancreatic cancer has spread, we aim to empower you with important knowledge that can potentially save lives and help make informed decisions.
So, let us embark on this educational journey together, equipping ourselves with crucial information that can make a difference in our fight against pancreatic cancer.
Oncology Nursing:-An oncology nurse is a specialized nurse who cares for cancer patients. These nurses require advanced certifications and clinical experiences in oncology further than the typical baccalaureate nursing program provides. Oncology nursing care can be defined as meeting the various needs of oncology patients during the time of their disease including appropriate screenings and other preventive practices, symptom management, care to retain as much normal functioning as possible, and supportive measures upon the end of life.
What is oncology?
Oncology is the branch of medicine that researches, identifies, and treats cancer. A physician who works in the field of oncology is an oncologist.
Oncologists must first diagnose cancer, which is usually carried out via biopsy, endoscopy, X-ray, CT scanning, MRI, PET scanning, ultrasound, or other radiological methods. Nuclear medicine can also be used to diagnose cancer, as can blood tests or tumor markers. Oncology is often linked with hematology, which is the branch of medicine that deals with blood and blood-related disorders.
Treatment
Once a diagnosis is made, the oncologist discusses the disease stage with the patient. Staging will dictate the treatment of cancer. Chemotherapy — which is defined as the destruction of cancer cells — may be used, as well as radiation therapy. Surgery is used to remove tumors. Hormone therapy is used to treat certain types of cancers, and monoclonal antibody treatments are gaining popularity. Research into cancer vaccines and immunotherapies is ongoing. Palliative care in oncology treats pain and other symptoms of cancer.
Treatment team
Cancer is often treated in a team effort, with at least two or three types of oncologists, including medical, surgical, or radiation. The oncology treatment team may also include a pathologist, a diagnostic radiologist, or an oncology nurse. In the event of a new or a difficult-to-treat case of cancer, the oncology care team may consult a tumor board, made up of various medical experts from all relevant disciplines. The tumor board reviews the case and recommends the best course of cancer treatment for the patient.
Oncology nurse
The oncology nurse has many roles, from helping with cancer screening, detection, and prevention, to the intensive care focus of bone marrow transplantation. Work settings for oncology nurses also vary and include acute care hospitals, ambulatory care clinics, private offices, radiation therapy facilities, and home care agencies. Oncology nurses work with adult and pediatric patients with cancer.
Pediatric Oncology
Pediatric oncology is a medical specialty that focuses on cancer care for children.
The National Cancer Institute estimates that 10,270 new cases of cancer will be diagnosed in children in 2017. Of these, 1,190 children will die from the disease.
Pediatric oncology is an important medical field that treats all pediatric cancer types, including acute lymphocytic leukemia,
• Modern Homeopathy has been providing treatment for Cancer, Liver Cirrhosis, Kidney failure, Heart diseases, Diabetes, Arthritis, Blood disorders, Lung diseases, and many others with painless treatment and reviving those lives who have lost the faith in their life. The practice of homeopathy is based on the principle that like cures.
Rectal cancer grows in the rectum cells which are placed beneath the sigmoid colon and over the anus in our body. The rectal and colon that are present in the body come together, that is colorectal cancer. The reason behind these circumstances is that they both are part of the digestive system.
Cancer is a deadly disease prevalent all over the world. This presentation gives you a bird's eye view on the causes,symptoms and treatment of lung and liver cancer.
The study of disease transmission
By and large, the frequency of disease is higher in men than in ladies and higher in industrialized areas and countries.
Acute scrotum is a general term referring to an emergency condition affecting the contents or the wall of the scrotum.
There are a number of conditions that present acutely, predominantly with pain and/or swelling
A careful and detailed history and examination, and in some cases, investigations allow differentiation between these diagnoses. A prompt diagnosis is essential as the patient may require urgent surgical intervention
Testicular torsion refers to twisting of the spermatic cord, causing ischaemia of the testicle.
Testicular torsion results from inadequate fixation of the testis to the tunica vaginalis producing ischemia from reduced arterial inflow and venous outflow obstruction.
The prevalence of testicular torsion in adult patients hospitalized with acute scrotal pain is approximately 25 to 50 percent
These simplified slides by Dr. Sidra Arshad present an overview of the non-respiratory functions of the respiratory tract.
Learning objectives:
1. Enlist the non-respiratory functions of the respiratory tract
2. Briefly explain how these functions are carried out
3. Discuss the significance of dead space
4. Differentiate between minute ventilation and alveolar ventilation
5. Describe the cough and sneeze reflexes
Study Resources:
1. Chapter 39, Guyton and Hall Textbook of Medical Physiology, 14th edition
2. Chapter 34, Ganong’s Review of Medical Physiology, 26th edition
3. Chapter 17, Human Physiology by Lauralee Sherwood, 9th edition
4. Non-respiratory functions of the lungs https://academic.oup.com/bjaed/article/13/3/98/278874
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN HEALTHCARE.pdfAnujkumaranit
Artificial intelligence (AI) refers to the simulation of human intelligence processes by machines, especially computer systems. It encompasses tasks such as learning, reasoning, problem-solving, perception, and language understanding. AI technologies are revolutionizing various fields, from healthcare to finance, by enabling machines to perform tasks that typically require human intelligence.
NVBDCP.pptx Nation vector borne disease control programSapna Thakur
NVBDCP was launched in 2003-2004 . Vector-Borne Disease: Disease that results from an infection transmitted to humans and other animals by blood-feeding arthropods, such as mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas. Examples of vector-borne diseases include Dengue fever, West Nile Virus, Lyme disease, and malaria.
Title: Sense of Smell
Presenter: Dr. Faiza, Assistant Professor of Physiology
Qualifications:
MBBS (Best Graduate, AIMC Lahore)
FCPS Physiology
ICMT, CHPE, DHPE (STMU)
MPH (GC University, Faisalabad)
MBA (Virtual University of Pakistan)
Learning Objectives:
Describe the primary categories of smells and the concept of odor blindness.
Explain the structure and location of the olfactory membrane and mucosa, including the types and roles of cells involved in olfaction.
Describe the pathway and mechanisms of olfactory signal transmission from the olfactory receptors to the brain.
Illustrate the biochemical cascade triggered by odorant binding to olfactory receptors, including the role of G-proteins and second messengers in generating an action potential.
Identify different types of olfactory disorders such as anosmia, hyposmia, hyperosmia, and dysosmia, including their potential causes.
Key Topics:
Olfactory Genes:
3% of the human genome accounts for olfactory genes.
400 genes for odorant receptors.
Olfactory Membrane:
Located in the superior part of the nasal cavity.
Medially: Folds downward along the superior septum.
Laterally: Folds over the superior turbinate and upper surface of the middle turbinate.
Total surface area: 5-10 square centimeters.
Olfactory Mucosa:
Olfactory Cells: Bipolar nerve cells derived from the CNS (100 million), with 4-25 olfactory cilia per cell.
Sustentacular Cells: Produce mucus and maintain ionic and molecular environment.
Basal Cells: Replace worn-out olfactory cells with an average lifespan of 1-2 months.
Bowman’s Gland: Secretes mucus.
Stimulation of Olfactory Cells:
Odorant dissolves in mucus and attaches to receptors on olfactory cilia.
Involves a cascade effect through G-proteins and second messengers, leading to depolarization and action potential generation in the olfactory nerve.
Quality of a Good Odorant:
Small (3-20 Carbon atoms), volatile, water-soluble, and lipid-soluble.
Facilitated by odorant-binding proteins in mucus.
Membrane Potential and Action Potential:
Resting membrane potential: -55mV.
Action potential frequency in the olfactory nerve increases with odorant strength.
Adaptation Towards the Sense of Smell:
Rapid adaptation within the first second, with further slow adaptation.
Psychological adaptation greater than receptor adaptation, involving feedback inhibition from the central nervous system.
Primary Sensations of Smell:
Camphoraceous, Musky, Floral, Pepperminty, Ethereal, Pungent, Putrid.
Odor Detection Threshold:
Examples: Hydrogen sulfide (0.0005 ppm), Methyl-mercaptan (0.002 ppm).
Some toxic substances are odorless at lethal concentrations.
Characteristics of Smell:
Odor blindness for single substances due to lack of appropriate receptor protein.
Behavioral and emotional influences of smell.
Transmission of Olfactory Signals:
From olfactory cells to glomeruli in the olfactory bulb, involving lateral inhibition.
Primitive, less old, and new olfactory systems with different path
New Directions in Targeted Therapeutic Approaches for Older Adults With Mantl...i3 Health
i3 Health is pleased to make the speaker slides from this activity available for use as a non-accredited self-study or teaching resource.
This slide deck presented by Dr. Kami Maddocks, Professor-Clinical in the Division of Hematology and
Associate Division Director for Ambulatory Operations
The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, will provide insight into new directions in targeted therapeutic approaches for older adults with mantle cell lymphoma.
STATEMENT OF NEED
Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is a rare, aggressive B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) accounting for 5% to 7% of all lymphomas. Its prognosis ranges from indolent disease that does not require treatment for years to very aggressive disease, which is associated with poor survival (Silkenstedt et al, 2021). Typically, MCL is diagnosed at advanced stage and in older patients who cannot tolerate intensive therapy (NCCN, 2022). Although recent advances have slightly increased remission rates, recurrence and relapse remain very common, leading to a median overall survival between 3 and 6 years (LLS, 2021). Though there are several effective options, progress is still needed towards establishing an accepted frontline approach for MCL (Castellino et al, 2022). Treatment selection and management of MCL are complicated by the heterogeneity of prognosis, advanced age and comorbidities of patients, and lack of an established standard approach for treatment, making it vital that clinicians be familiar with the latest research and advances in this area. In this activity chaired by Michael Wang, MD, Professor in the Department of Lymphoma & Myeloma at MD Anderson Cancer Center, expert faculty will discuss prognostic factors informing treatment, the promising results of recent trials in new therapeutic approaches, and the implications of treatment resistance in therapeutic selection for MCL.
Target Audience
Hematology/oncology fellows, attending faculty, and other health care professionals involved in the treatment of patients with mantle cell lymphoma (MCL).
Learning Objectives
1.) Identify clinical and biological prognostic factors that can guide treatment decision making for older adults with MCL
2.) Evaluate emerging data on targeted therapeutic approaches for treatment-naive and relapsed/refractory MCL and their applicability to older adults
3.) Assess mechanisms of resistance to targeted therapies for MCL and their implications for treatment selection
Prix Galien International 2024 Forum ProgramLevi Shapiro
June 20, 2024, Prix Galien International and Jerusalem Ethics Forum in ROME. Detailed agenda including panels:
- ADVANCES IN CARDIOLOGY: A NEW PARADIGM IS COMING
- WOMEN’S HEALTH: FERTILITY PRESERVATION
- WHAT’S NEW IN THE TREATMENT OF INFECTIOUS,
ONCOLOGICAL AND INFLAMMATORY SKIN DISEASES?
- ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AND ETHICS
- GENE THERAPY
- BEYOND BORDERS: GLOBAL INITIATIVES FOR DEMOCRATIZING LIFE SCIENCE TECHNOLOGIES AND PROMOTING ACCESS TO HEALTHCARE
- ETHICAL CHALLENGES IN LIFE SCIENCES
- Prix Galien International Awards Ceremony
These lecture slides, by Dr Sidra Arshad, offer a quick overview of physiological basis of a normal electrocardiogram.
Learning objectives:
1. Define an electrocardiogram (ECG) and electrocardiography
2. Describe how dipoles generated by the heart produce the waveforms of the ECG
3. Describe the components of a normal electrocardiogram of a typical bipolar leads (limb II)
4. Differentiate between intervals and segments
5. Enlist some common indications for obtaining an ECG
Study Resources:
1. Chapter 11, Guyton and Hall Textbook of Medical Physiology, 14th edition
2. Chapter 9, Human Physiology - From Cells to Systems, Lauralee Sherwood, 9th edition
3. Chapter 29, Ganong’s Review of Medical Physiology, 26th edition
4. Electrocardiogram, StatPearls - https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK549803/
5. ECG in Medical Practice by ABM Abdullah, 4th edition
6. ECG Basics, http://www.nataliescasebook.com/tag/e-c-g-basics
Flu Vaccine Alert in Bangalore Karnatakaaddon Scans
As flu season approaches, health officials in Bangalore, Karnataka, are urging residents to get their flu vaccinations. The seasonal flu, while common, can lead to severe health complications, particularly for vulnerable populations such as young children, the elderly, and those with underlying health conditions.
Dr. Vidisha Kumari, a leading epidemiologist in Bangalore, emphasizes the importance of getting vaccinated. "The flu vaccine is our best defense against the influenza virus. It not only protects individuals but also helps prevent the spread of the virus in our communities," he says.
This year, the flu season is expected to coincide with a potential increase in other respiratory illnesses. The Karnataka Health Department has launched an awareness campaign highlighting the significance of flu vaccinations. They have set up multiple vaccination centers across Bangalore, making it convenient for residents to receive their shots.
To encourage widespread vaccination, the government is also collaborating with local schools, workplaces, and community centers to facilitate vaccination drives. Special attention is being given to ensuring that the vaccine is accessible to all, including marginalized communities who may have limited access to healthcare.
Residents are reminded that the flu vaccine is safe and effective. Common side effects are mild and may include soreness at the injection site, mild fever, or muscle aches. These side effects are generally short-lived and far less severe than the flu itself.
Healthcare providers are also stressing the importance of continuing COVID-19 precautions. Wearing masks, practicing good hand hygiene, and maintaining social distancing are still crucial, especially in crowded places.
Protect yourself and your loved ones by getting vaccinated. Together, we can help keep Bangalore healthy and safe this flu season. For more information on vaccination centers and schedules, residents can visit the Karnataka Health Department’s official website or follow their social media pages.
Stay informed, stay safe, and get your flu shot today!
micro teaching on communication m.sc nursing.pdfAnurag Sharma
Microteaching is a unique model of practice teaching. It is a viable instrument for the. desired change in the teaching behavior or the behavior potential which, in specified types of real. classroom situations, tends to facilitate the achievement of specified types of objectives.
Tom Selleck Health: A Comprehensive Look at the Iconic Actor’s Wellness Journeygreendigital
Tom Selleck, an enduring figure in Hollywood. has captivated audiences for decades with his rugged charm, iconic moustache. and memorable roles in television and film. From his breakout role as Thomas Magnum in Magnum P.I. to his current portrayal of Frank Reagan in Blue Bloods. Selleck's career has spanned over 50 years. But beyond his professional achievements. fans have often been curious about Tom Selleck Health. especially as he has aged in the public eye.
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Introduction
Many have been interested in Tom Selleck health. not only because of his enduring presence on screen but also because of the challenges. and lifestyle choices he has faced and made over the years. This article delves into the various aspects of Tom Selleck health. exploring his fitness regimen, diet, mental health. and the challenges he has encountered as he ages. We'll look at how he maintains his well-being. the health issues he has faced, and his approach to ageing .
Early Life and Career
Childhood and Athletic Beginnings
Tom Selleck was born on January 29, 1945, in Detroit, Michigan, and grew up in Sherman Oaks, California. From an early age, he was involved in sports, particularly basketball. which played a significant role in his physical development. His athletic pursuits continued into college. where he attended the University of Southern California (USC) on a basketball scholarship. This early involvement in sports laid a strong foundation for his physical health and disciplined lifestyle.
Transition to Acting
Selleck's transition from an athlete to an actor came with its physical demands. His first significant role in "Magnum P.I." required him to perform various stunts and maintain a fit appearance. This role, which he played from 1980 to 1988. necessitated a rigorous fitness routine to meet the show's demands. setting the stage for his long-term commitment to health and wellness.
Fitness Regimen
Workout Routine
Tom Selleck health and fitness regimen has evolved. adapting to his changing roles and age. During his "Magnum, P.I." days. Selleck's workouts were intense and focused on building and maintaining muscle mass. His routine included weightlifting, cardiovascular exercises. and specific training for the stunts he performed on the show.
Selleck adjusted his fitness routine as he aged to suit his body's needs. Today, his workouts focus on maintaining flexibility, strength, and cardiovascular health. He incorporates low-impact exercises such as swimming, walking, and light weightlifting. This balanced approach helps him stay fit without putting undue strain on his joints and muscles.
Importance of Flexibility and Mobility
In recent years, Selleck has emphasized the importance of flexibility and mobility in his fitness regimen. Understanding the natural decline in muscle mass and joint flexibility with age. he includes stretching and yoga in his routine. These practices help prevent injuries, improve posture, and maintain mobilit
Maxilla, Mandible & Hyoid Bone & Clinical Correlations by Dr. RIG.pptx
Gastroduodenal tumors
1. 1
UNIVERSIDAD TECNICA DE MACHALA
ACADEMIC UNIT OF CHEMICAL
SCIENCES AND HEALTH
MEDICINE SCHOOL
ENGLISH
GASTRODUODENAL
TUMORS
STUDENTS
William Cruz
Kevin Herrera
TEACHER:
Mgs. Barreto Huilcapi Lina Maribel
CLASS:
EIGHTH SEMESTER ‘’A’’
Machala, El Oro
2018
2. 2
Gastroduodenal Tumors
Definition
The gastrointestinal tract is part of the digestive system of the body. It helps to digest
food and absorbs nutrients (vitamins, minerals, carbohydrates, fats, proteins and
water) from food so that the body can use them. The gastrointestinal tract is made up
of the following organs:
Stomach.
Small intestine.
Large intestine (colon).
Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST) can be malignant (cancerous) or benign (non-
cancerous). They are more common in the stomach and small intestine, but they are
found anywhere in or near the gastrointestinal tract. Some scientists believe that GIST
start in cells called interstitial cells of Cajal (CIC) of the gastrointestinal tract wall.
3. 3
Etiology
Anything that increases the likelihood of getting sick is called a risk factor. The
presence of a risk factor does not mean that you will get cancer; But the absence of
risk factors does not mean that you will not get cancer. Check with your doctor if you
think you are at risk.
The genes of the cells have the hereditary information that a person receives from
their parents. The risk of GIST increases in people who have an inherited mutation
(change) in a given gene. In rare cases, TEGI is found in several members of the
same family.
4. 4
GIST can be part of a genetic syndrome, but this is rare. A genetic syndrome is a set
of symptoms or conditions that occur together and whose usual cause are abnormal
genes. The following genetic syndromes were related to GIST:
Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1).
Carney's triad.
Signs and symptoms
GIST and other conditions cause these and other signs and symptoms:
Blood (bright red or very dark) in fecal matter or vomit.
Pain in the abdomen that can be intense.
Feeling very tired.
Difficulty or pain when swallowing
Feeling full after eating very little food.
Diagnosis
The following tests and procedures can be used:
Physical exam and history: body exam to check the general state of health, and
identify any signs of disease, such as masses or anything else that seems abnormal.
Patient data is also taken on health habits and the history of diseases and treatments.
Computed tomography (CT): a procedure that takes a series of detailed images of the
inside of the body from different angles. The images are created with a computer
connected to an x-ray machine. A dye is injected into a vein or swallowed so that the
organs or tissues stand out more clearly. This procedure is also called computed
tomography, computerized axial tomography (CAT) or CT scan.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): A procedure that uses a magnet, radio waves,
and a computer to create a series of detailed images of areas inside the body. This
procedure is also called nuclear magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
Endoscopic ultrasound and biopsy: endoscopy and ultrasound are used to produce an
image of the gastrointestinal tract and then a biopsy is performed. An endoscope (a
5. 5
thin tube resembling an instrument with light and a lens for observation) is inserted
through the mouth and into the esophagus, stomach, and first part of the small
intestine. A probe placed at the end of the endoscope is used to bounce high-energy
(ultrasonic) sound waves off tissues or internal organs and create echoes. The echoes
form an image of the tissues of the body called ecography. This procedure is also
called endoechography. The doctor, guided by the ultrasound, extracts tissue through
a thin, hollow needle. A pathologist observes the tissue under a microscope to
determine if there are cancer cells.
If a cancer is found, the following tests may be done to study the cancer cells:
Immunohistochemical test: test to identify certain antigens in a tissue sample by the
use of antibodies. Usually, the antibody binds to a radioactive substance or a dye so
that the cells light up under the microscope. This type of test is used to determine the
difference between different types of cancer.
Mitotic rate: measurement of the speed at which cancer cells multiply and grow. The
mitotic rate is determined by counting the cells that multiply in a sample of cancerous
tissue.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the clinical situation
of the patient (performance status) as of the stage, histological type and location of
the tumor. Surgical resection is the only potentially curative treatment for advanced
GA. In addition, it provides the most effective palliation of the symptoms. Therefore,
surgical treatment should be offered to most patients. However, if there is plastic
linitis, metastatic disease, retroperitoneal invasion or the patient suffers from serious
diseases, the prognosis worsens significantly, which questions the benefit of the
surgery. In U.S.A. and Europe, the average resectability rate is 50%, and only in half
of these cases can a gastrectomy with pretension be performed curative.
The extent of gastric resection is controversial. In general, proximal gastric cancer
should be treated by total gastrectomy. However, it is considered appropriate to
6. 6
perform a subtotal gastrectomy in an early tumor or T2 if its proximal margin is more
than 2 cm from the cardia. In the assumption that the tumor is more infiltrating, the
tumor must be at a distance of 5 cm from the cardia in order to perform a subtotal
resection. It is recommended to perform a total gastrectomy if the distance to the
cardia is less than 5 cm or the tumor is diffuse and infiltrates the submucosa. In the
distal AG (antral), subtotal gastrectomy should be the treatment of choice, since it is
associated with a better nutritional capacity and a higher quality of life. Limited
gastric resections are only indicated for palliative purposes or in very old people.
Prevention
Screening programs are effective in identifying the disease in the early stages in parts
of the world where the risk of gastric cancer is much higher than in the United States.
The values of screenings in the United States and in other countries with much lower
rates of gastric cancer is unclear.
The following may help reduce the risk of gastric cancer:
No Smoking.
Eat a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
Take medications to treat reflux disease (heartburn), if it occurs.
Take antibiotics if you are diagnosed with H. pylori infection.
Bibliography
Lee, Hoo-Yeon and others. Comparing upper gastrointestinal X-ray and
endoscopy for gastric cancer diagnosis in Korea. World J (2): 245-250.
Leung, Wai K and others. Screening for gastric cancer in Asia: current
evidence and practice. Oncology: vole 9: march 2008: 279-287
Park, Mi-Suk and others. Scirrhous gastric carcinoma: endoscopy versus
upper gastrointestinal radiography. Radiology: volume 235: number 2-May
2004. 421- 426