Signet Ring Cell Carcinoma in the Antrum Is Manageable: Effective Treatment with Surgery and Chemotherapy

Signet ring cell carcinoma of the gastric antrum, although often perceived as a serious diagnosis, can be effectively treated with a comprehensive approach involving surgery and chemotherapy. This case involves a 48-year-old male patient who presented with progressive abdominal pain and was eventually diagnosed with signet ring cell carcinoma of the gastric antrum. Following a well-structured treatment plan, including partial gastrectomy and adjuvant chemotherapy, the patient experienced a full resolution of symptoms with no signs of recurrence during follow-up.

Case Overview

- Age & Gender: Male, 48 years old
- Diagnosis: Signet ring cell carcinoma of the gastric antrum
- Hospital: Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center
- Date of Visit: May 2022
- Treatment Plan: Surgical resection (partial gastrectomy) followed by six cycles of chemotherapy
- Treatment Duration: 14 days of hospitalization and six months of chemotherapy
- Outcome: Complete relief of abdominal pain, no tumor recurrence detected

1. Initial Consultation

Mr. Zhao, a 48-year-old man, had a long history of smoking and alcohol consumption, along with frequent consumption of fast food due to a busy work schedule. He began experiencing mild abdominal pain that gradually worsened over time. Initially tolerable, the discomfort eventually prompted him to seek medical attention.

Upon physical examination, no abdominal masses, tenderness, or rebound tenderness were found. A gastroscopy revealed an ulcer in the gastric antrum, and a biopsy confirmed signet ring cell carcinoma. The diagnosis was confirmed, and the patient was admitted for further treatment.

2. Treatment Plan and Progress

To assess the extent of the disease, a PET-CT scan was performed, which showed enlarged lymph nodes on both the lesser and greater curvature of the stomach, indicating possible metastasis. After a detailed discussion with the patient and his family, a treatment plan was established involving surgical removal of the affected gastric tissue followed by adjuvant chemotherapy.

Following preoperative evaluations, the patient underwent a partial gastrectomy. Postoperative pathology confirmed the initial diagnosis. Subsequently, the patient received chemotherapy using oxaliplatin and S-1 capsules over six cycles to reduce the risk of recurrence.

3. Treatment Outcomes

The surgery was completed successfully, and the patient's vital signs remained stable postoperatively. By the 14th day of hospitalization, his abdominal pain had resolved, and his surgical wound healed well without signs of infection or complications. He was discharged with a favorable prognosis.

Throughout the six cycles of chemotherapy, the patient tolerated the treatment well without significant side effects. Follow-up examinations, including imaging and blood tests, showed no signs of tumor recurrence. These results indicate that the combined treatment of surgery and chemotherapy was highly effective in managing the disease.

4. Key Recommendations for Recovery

After successful treatment, it is crucial for patients to adopt lifestyle modifications to support long-term recovery. I advised Mr. Zhao to consume easily digestible, low-residue foods such as steamed egg and minced meat, and to eat smaller, more frequent meals to support digestion.

Avoiding fatty and hard-to-digest foods is essential to reduce gastrointestinal strain. Additionally, complete cessation of smoking and alcohol consumption is necessary, as these are known risk factors for gastric cancer. Regular follow-up appointments are also vital to monitor for any signs of recurrence or complications.

5. Clinical Insight and Preventive Advice

This case highlights the importance of early detection and timely intervention in managing gastric antrum malignancies. Mr. Zhao's condition was likely influenced by his long-term unhealthy lifestyle, including fast food consumption, smoking, and alcohol use. Fortunately, his cancer was diagnosed before reaching an advanced stage, allowing for effective treatment.

I strongly encourage individuals to prioritize healthy eating habits, avoid tobacco and alcohol, and undergo regular health screenings. These proactive measures can significantly reduce the risk of developing aggressive cancers like signet ring cell carcinoma of the gastric antrum.