Treatment Options for Malignant Gastric Ulcers

A malignant gastric ulcer is essentially gastric cancer that has developed from a previously existing ulcer. The primary treatment options for this condition include:

Surgical Intervention

Surgery remains the only potentially curative treatment for gastric cancer. This typically involves the removal of the tumor along with surrounding lymph nodes. The success of the surgery largely depends on the stage of the cancer and how far it has spread. In cases where distant metastasis is present, palliative surgery may be performed to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life rather than to cure the disease.

Endoscopic Treatments

For early-stage gastric cancers, endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) or endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) can be effective. These minimally invasive techniques allow for the removal of cancerous tissue without the need for open surgery, particularly when the cancer is localized and hasn't spread to deeper layers of the stomach wall.

Chemotherapy as an Adjunct Therapy

Chemotherapy plays a crucial role in the comprehensive management of gastric cancer. Anticancer drugs such as fluorouracil, mitomycin, and tegafur are commonly used before, during, or after surgery to help shrink tumors, kill remaining cancer cells, and prevent recurrence. Chemotherapy can also be combined with other treatments like radiation therapy for better outcomes.

In addition to these primary treatments, supportive care strategies are essential. These may include nutritional support through intravenous feeding, immunotherapy to boost the body's natural defenses, and complementary therapies such as herbal medicine to help manage side effects and enhance overall well-being.

Palliative and Supportive Care

For patients with advanced disease, symptom management becomes a priority. Palliative care focuses on relieving pain, improving nutrition, and enhancing comfort. This multidisciplinary approach ensures that patients receive not only medical treatment but also emotional and psychological support throughout their journey.