Gastrointestinal physiology

Gastrointestinal neoplasms are a group of neoplasms or tumors that occur in the gastrointestinal tract. The gastrointestinal tract, also known as the digestive tract, includes the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, rectum, and anus.

Types of Gastrointestinal Neoplasms

There are several types of gastrointestinal neoplasms, including:

• Esophageal cancer: This type of cancer begins in the esophagus, the tube that carries food from the throat to the stomach.
• Gastric cancer: Also known as stomach cancer, this type originates in the stomach.
• Colorectal cancer: This type of cancer starts in the colon or the rectum, which are parts of the large intestine.
• Pancreatic cancer: This type of cancer begins in the pancreas, an organ that lies behind the lower part of the stomach.
• Hepatocellular carcinoma: This is the most common type of primary liver cancer, starting in the liver.

Symptoms

Symptoms of gastrointestinal neoplasms can vary depending on the location of the tumor. Common symptoms may include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, weight loss, and changes in bowel movements.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of gastrointestinal neoplasms often involves a combination of physical examination, medical history, blood tests, imaging tests, and biopsy.

Treatment

Treatment options for gastrointestinal neoplasms depend on the type and stage of the cancer, as well as the patient's overall health. Treatment may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or a combination of these.

See Also

• Cancer
• Oncology
• Gastroenterology