Stomach lymphoma, also called gastric lymphoma, is a form of cancer that accounts for approximately 4 percent of all cases of stomach cancer, explains The Merck Manual of Geriatrics. People who develop any of the signs or symptoms of stomach lymphoma should receive further evaluation and care from a medical professional.
Abdominal Pain
The most common sign associated with stomach lymphoma is abdominal pain, according to the Johns Hopkins Medicine website. Cancer cell growth within the lining of the stomach can irritate and inflame this digestive organ. Consequently, affected people can experience mild to severe abdominal pain that may become worse as stomach lymphoma advances. People who experience sudden or severe abdominal pain should seek prompt medical care, as this symptom of stomach lymphoma can also be a symptom of appendicitis.
Nausea or Vomiting
Stomach irritation caused by stomach lymphoma can lead to nausea and vomiting in affected people. Approximately 10 to 30 percent of people with stomach lymphoma become nauseated or begin to vomit, explain Drs. Speranza and Lomanto in a 2001 article published in the book "Surgical Treatment: Evidence-Based and Problem-Oriented." These signs of stomach lymphoma can be uncomfortable and may persist for several weeks or months.
Sore Throat or Difficulty Swallowing
Depending upon the extent of stomach lymphoma growth, certain people can develop difficulty swallowing, called dysphagia, as a sign of this disease, reports the Merck Manual of Geriatrics. Difficulty swallowing can also occur in conjunction with sore throat symptoms.
Decreased Appetite and Weight Loss
Abdominal pain, stomach upset and difficulty swallowing can disrupt a person's appetite. This decrease in appetite can lead to weight loss in people with stomach lymphoma. In fact, Speranza and Lomanto report that up to 40 percent of people with stomach lymphoma lose more than 2 kg of body weight as a consequence of this disease.
References
- The Merck Manual of Geriatrics: Malignant Tumors---Lymphoma
- "Surgical Treatment: Evidence-Based and Problem-Oriented"; Primary Gastric Lymphoma; Dr. V. Speranza and Dr. D. Lomanto; 2001
- Johns Hopkins Medicine: Gastric Cancer
- UpToDate: Clinical Presentation and Diagnosis of Primary Gastrointestinal Lymphoma
