Stomach cancer, also known as gastric cancer, is a type of cancer that develops in the lining of the stomach. It is important to understand the different types of stomach cancer as it can help in diagnosis, treatment, and management of the disease.

In this comprehensive guide, we will discuss the various types of stomach cancer, their characteristics, and the available treatment options.

1. Adenocarcinoma

Adenocarcinoma is the most common type of stomach cancer, accounting for about 90-95% of all cases. It develops in the glandular cells of the stomach lining and can occur in any part of the stomach.

Adenocarcinomas can be further classified into two subtypes: intestinal and diffuse.

2. Intestinal Type Adenocarcinoma

This subtype of adenocarcinoma is typically associated with chronic gastritis, a condition characterized by inflammation of the stomach lining. It usually develops from precancerous changes, such as intestinal metaplasia or dysplasia.

Intestinal type adenocarcinoma tends to grow slowly and is often found in the lower part of the stomach near the junction with the small intestine.

3. Diffuse Type Adenocarcinoma

Diffuse type adenocarcinoma, also known as signet ring cell carcinoma, is characterized by scattered cancer cells that infiltrate the stomach lining.

The cancer cells in this subtype do not form glands and are more likely to spread throughout the stomach and to other organs. Diffuse type adenocarcinoma is often aggressive and associated with a poor prognosis.

4. Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor (GIST)

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors are a rare type of stomach cancer that develops in the stromal cells of the gastrointestinal tract. These tumors can occur anywhere along the digestive tract, including the stomach.

GISTs may be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). They are usually diagnosed with the help of imaging tests and a biopsy.

5. Lymphoma

Lymphoma is a cancer that starts in the lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell. While it typically affects lymph nodes, it can also develop in the stomach. Primary gastric lymphoma is a rare form of stomach cancer, accounting for about 4% of all cases.

It is more common in individuals with a weakened immune system, such as those with HIV or Epstein-Barr virus infection.

6. Carcinoid Tumor

Carcinoid tumors are rare neuroendocrine tumors that can develop in the stomach. These tumors grow slowly and may produce hormones.

They often do not cause symptoms in the early stages but can lead to symptoms like abdominal pain, diarrhea, and flushing as they grow larger.

7. Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Squamous cell carcinoma is a less common type of stomach cancer that starts in the squamous cells lining the upper part of the stomach.

It is strongly associated with certain risk factors such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and a diet lacking fruits and vegetables.

8. Small Cell Carcinoma

Small cell carcinoma of the stomach is a rare and aggressive type of cancer that originates in the neural crest cells of the stomach. It grows rapidly and spreads quickly to other parts of the body.

Small cell carcinoma is often difficult to treat and has a poor prognosis.

9. Mixed Carcinoma

Mixed carcinoma, as the name suggests, is a type of stomach cancer comprised of a mixture of different cell types. It may include a combination of adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and/or other types of cancer cells.

10. Rare Subtypes

There are also several rare subtypes of stomach cancer, including adenosquamous carcinoma, undifferentiated carcinoma, and carcinosarcoma. These subtypes are less common and may have unique characteristics and treatment considerations.

It is important to note that treatment options for stomach cancer vary depending on the type, stage, and individual factors.

Treatment may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapies, immunotherapy, or a combination of these approaches.