Gastric cancer occurs when malignant cancer cells begin to grow and spread inside the lining of the stomach. Over time these cells may begin to spread outside of the stomach to the surrounding tissues and lymph nodes. Although there is no known cause of stomach cancer, there is a strong correlation between a diet high in smoked, salted and pickled foods and stomach cancer, according to staff at the Mayo Clinic. Treatment options for advanced gastric cancer depend on the stage and grade of the cancer and the patient's overall health.
Surgery
The goal of surgery is to remove all of the stomach cancer and a margin of healthy tissue, when possible. With advanced gastric cancer, a portion of the stomach or the entire stomach may be removed. Parts of the esophagus and small intestine may also be surgically removed. During surgery, the esophagus is attached to the small intestine so that the digestive tract remains intact and functional. The surrounding lymph nodes may be removed so they can be examined to determine if cancer has spread beyond the stomach.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy uses high beam x-rays to kill and destroy cancer cells. It may be given in two ways. External radiation therapy consists of a machine placed outside of the body which delivers radiation to the affected area through the skin. Radiation may also be given internally, through the surgical implantation of radioactive wires, seeds and rods placed at the affected area. In some cases, radiation therapy may be used prior to surgery to shrink the existing tumor or following surgery to kill any cancer cells which may remain.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is the use of potent drugs to kill cancer cells. Chemotherapy can be given intravenously or in pill form. Chemotherapy can be given before surgery to help shrink a tumor so it can be more easily removed or after surgery to kill any cancer cells that might remain in the body. Chemotherapy may be used in conjunction with surgery and radiation therapy.
