Is a Complete Blood Count Normal in Stomach Cancer Patients?

A complete blood count (CBC) in patients with stomach cancer can sometimes appear normal, especially in the early stages of the disease. However, more often than not, the results are abnormal due to various complications associated with gastric malignancies.

One of the most common reasons for abnormal CBC results is gastrointestinal bleeding. Stomach cancer can cause chronic or acute bleeding in the digestive tract, leading to iron deficiency anemia. This condition typically presents as microcytic anemia, where hemoglobin and red blood cell counts are reduced, and both the mean corpuscular volume (MCV) and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) are lower than normal.

In addition to bleeding, many gastric cancer patients suffer from chronic atrophic gastritis. This condition can lead to a deficiency in intrinsic factor, which is essential for vitamin B12 absorption. As a result, patients may develop macrocytic anemia, also known as pernicious anemia. In this case, the CBC will show reduced hemoglobin and red blood cell counts, but with an increased MCV and MCHC.

Abnormal blood test results should never be ignored, especially when accompanied by gastric symptoms. If a patient presents with unexplained fatigue, weight loss, or digestive discomfort, and a CBC reveals signs of anemia, further investigation is warranted. Endoscopic examination is considered the gold standard for diagnosing stomach cancer. It allows for direct visualization of the stomach lining and the collection of biopsy samples if necessary.

In conclusion, while a normal CBC cannot rule out stomach cancer, it is often indicative of underlying issues when abnormalities are present. Early detection through proper diagnostic procedures can significantly improve patient outcomes. Anyone experiencing persistent gastric symptoms should consult a healthcare professional and consider undergoing a gastroscopy for a comprehensive evaluation.