What To Do About Stomach Tumors

There are several types of tumors that can develop in the stomach, including gastric polyps, submucosal tumors, gastric lymphomas, and gastric cancer. Each type requires a different approach to diagnosis and treatment.

Gastric polyps are typically treated using endoscopic electrocautery, a minimally invasive procedure that removes the polyps with minimal trauma and allows for a quicker recovery. For submucosal tumors, an endoscopic ultrasound is recommended to determine the origin and size of the tumor. If the tumor measures less than six centimeters, it can often be treated using minimally invasive endoscopic techniques.

In cases of malignant stomach tumors, a biopsy is usually performed first to confirm the diagnosis. If the results indicate early-stage gastric cancer, endoscopic treatment may still be an option. However, for more advanced gastric cancer, comprehensive evaluations including chest and abdominal imaging are necessary to rule out distant lymph node or organ metastasis.

If no metastasis is found, surgical removal of the tumor is generally recommended. But if distant spread is detected, treatment options may shift to include chemotherapy, targeted drug therapy, or supportive care to manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Early detection and proper staging are crucial for determining the most effective treatment plan for gastric tumors.