Is Chemotherapy Effective for Liver Metastasis in Gastric Cancer?

When gastric cancer spreads to the liver, chemotherapy remains a viable and often effective treatment option. As a systemic therapy, chemotherapy works by targeting rapidly dividing cells throughout the body, including cancer cells that have metastasized to the liver. It can help slow disease progression, shrink tumors, and potentially extend survival, which is why it is commonly used in advanced stages of gastric cancer.

Common Chemotherapy Drugs Used

The most frequently used chemotherapy agents for gastric cancer include Fluorouracil (5-FU), Doxorubicin, and Mitomycin. These drugs may be used alone or in combination, depending on the patient's overall health and the specific characteristics of the tumor.

Potential Side Effects of Chemotherapy

While chemotherapy can be effective, it does come with a range of potential side effects. Common short-term effects include gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite. Patients may also experience liver or kidney dysfunction and bone marrow suppression, which can lead to lower levels of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.

How Doctors Determine the Best Approach

Oncologists carefully weigh the benefits of chemotherapy against its risks. Factors such as the patient's age, general health, extent of disease spread, and prior treatments are all considered when selecting a treatment plan.

In summary, chemotherapy plays a crucial role in managing gastric cancer with liver metastasis. It offers the potential for tumor control and symptom relief, though it must be tailored to each individual to minimize adverse effects.