Is Chemotherapy Necessary for T1N0M0 Gastric Cancer?

T1N0M0 gastric cancer is considered an early-stage form of the disease and typically does not require chemotherapy. This classification indicates that the tumor is confined to the mucosal layer of the stomach, with no lymph node involvement or distant metastasis. In such cases, surgical removal of the tumor is usually sufficient for effective treatment.

During the procedure, the surgeon removes the tumor along with surrounding lymph nodes to ensure complete eradication of any potential cancerous cells in the area. Following surgery, additional chemotherapy is generally unnecessary, and patients are advised to undergo regular follow-up appointments. The five-year survival rate for T1N0M0 gastric cancer is quite high—over 90%—which means many patients achieve what is referred to as clinical remission or cure.

Even though the prognosis is favorable, regular monitoring is essential after surgery. While the chances of recurrence or metastasis are low, they are not entirely absent. Therefore, doctors recommend annual endoscopic exams and periodic imaging tests, such as contrast-enhanced abdominal CT scans, along with blood tests for tumor markers to ensure early detection of any possible changes.