Best Doctors for Stomach Cancer in Hyderabad

Stages of Stomach Cancer

Stomach cancer is classified into stages based on the size and spread of the tumour. The stages include:

• Stage 0: Known as carcinoma in situ, this stage has cancer cells restricted to the innermost layer of the stomach lining.

• Stage I: The cancer invades deeper layers of the stomach lining but does not extend to nearby lymph nodes or other organs.

• Stage II: It witnesses the spreading of cancer to nearby lymph nodes or through the muscular wall of the stomach.

• Stage III: Cancer extends to nearby lymph nodes, through the muscular wall of the stomach and may invade nearby structures like pancreas or spleen.

• Stage IV: The most advanced stage where cancer has spread to distant organs such as liver, lungs or to bones.

Symptoms of Stomach Cancer

The symptoms associated with stomach cancer vary and may include:

• Abdominal pain or discomfort

• Nausea and vomiting

• Weight loss without any significant changes in diet or physical activity

• Feeling full despite consuming minimal amounts of food

• The presence of blood in the stool

Tests to Diagnose Stomach Cancer

Apollo Hospital offers a comprehensive range of diagnostic tests for stomach cancer, which include:

• Upper Endoscopy: A procedure that inspects the interior of the oesophagus, stomach, and duodenum for any abnormal areas.

• Biopsy: Tissue samples are taken for testing to confirm the presence of cancer cells.

• Barium Swallow: Post consumption of a barium-containing liquid, X-rays of the oesophagus and stomach are taken.

• CT (CAT) Scan: Detailed imaging technology that provides a visual representation of internal body areas.

• Blood tests: These tests look for signs of cancer and assess overall health.

Treatment or Surgery Options for Stomach Cancer at Apollo Hospitals, Hyderabad

The treatment approach for stomach cancer varies with its stage at diagnosis. At Apollo Hospitals in Hyderabad, the exceptional team of doctors for stomach cancer treatment tailor treatment plans based on individual patient’s needs. The treatments may involve:

• Surgery: Removal of part or whole stomach (gastrectomy), depending upon the extent of cancer spread.

• Chemotherapy: Use of drugs to kill cancer cells or to stop them from dividing.

• Radiation Therapy: High-energy x-rays or other types of radiation used to kill cancer cells or prevent their growth.

• Targeted Therapy: Drugs designed to target specific cancer cells are used, leading to minimal damage to normal cells.

• Immunotherapy: Treatments that stimulate the immune system to fight cancer cells.