Stomach cancer, familial

An inherited form of stomach cancer

Familial Stomach Cancer
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Synonyms	N/A
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, weight loss
Complications	Metastasis, malnutrition
Onset	Typically in adulthood
Duration	Long-term
Types	N/A
Causes	Genetic mutations (e.g., CDH1 gene)
Risks	Family history, genetic predisposition
Diagnosis	Genetic testing, endoscopy, biopsy
Differential diagnosis	N/A
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Surgery, chemotherapy, targeted therapy
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	Varies depending on stage and treatment
Frequency	Rare
Deaths	N/A

Familial stomach cancer is a hereditary form of stomach cancer that occurs due to genetic mutations passed down through families. It is a rare condition but has significant implications for affected individuals and their relatives.

Genetics

Familial stomach cancer is often associated with mutations in the CDH1 gene, which encodes the protein E-cadherin. This protein is crucial for cell adhesion, and its dysfunction can lead to increased cancer risk. Other genetic mutations may also contribute to familial stomach cancer, but CDH1 is the most well-known.

Symptoms

The symptoms of familial stomach cancer are similar to those of sporadic stomach cancer and may include:

• Abdominal pain
• Nausea and vomiting
• Weight loss
• Loss of appetite
• Dysphagia (difficulty swallowing)

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of familial stomach cancer involves a combination of genetic testing and clinical evaluation. Individuals with a family history of stomach cancer may undergo genetic testing to identify mutations in the CDH1 gene. Endoscopic examination and biopsy are used to confirm the presence of cancerous cells in the stomach.

Treatment

Treatment options for familial stomach cancer depend on the stage of the disease and may include:

• Surgery: Total or partial gastrectomy to remove cancerous tissue.
• Chemotherapy: Use of drugs to kill cancer cells.
• Targeted therapy: Drugs that specifically target cancer cell mechanisms.

Prognosis

The prognosis for familial stomach cancer varies. Early detection and treatment can improve outcomes, but the overall prognosis depends on the stage at diagnosis and the effectiveness of the treatment.

Prevention

For individuals with a known genetic predisposition, preventive measures may include regular surveillance endoscopies and consideration of prophylactic gastrectomy to reduce cancer risk.

Also see

• Stomach cancer
• Hereditary cancer syndromes
• Genetic testing
• CDH1 gene