Gastric Squamous Cell Carcinoma vs Adenocarcinoma: Which Is More Severe?

Gastric squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a rare form of stomach cancer, accounting for approximately 0.04% to 0.7% of all gastric malignancies, according to medical literature. This type of cancer typically arises due to chronic inflammation and repeated infections of the gastric mucosa, leading to squamous metaplasia. Studies show that gastric SCC is more commonly diagnosed in men than in women. One of the major concerns with gastric squamous cell carcinoma is its poor prognosis, largely due to its resistance to conventional chemotherapy and radiation therapy.

Currently, the primary treatment for gastric SCC involves surgical resection, often combined with adjuvant therapies such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Other treatment options may include targeted therapy and complementary approaches like traditional Chinese medicine. When comparing gastric SCC to gastric adenocarcinoma, they differ significantly in histopathological classification. However, both types share similar clinical presentations.

Common symptoms of gastric SCC include epigastric discomfort, nausea, and vomiting, while advanced stages may lead to symptoms such as anemia and unexplained weight loss. These signs are not unique to gastric squamous cell carcinoma and can overlap with those of other gastric cancers, making early diagnosis particularly challenging. As a result, awareness and timely medical evaluation are crucial for effective management.