GASTROINTESTINAL (GI) NEOPLASIA

Overview

Gastrointestinal (GI) neoplasia is a condition in which a tumour (abnormal formation) occurs in the digestive tract. DNA mutations lead to the emergence of cancerous cells in the gastrointestinal tract, a ' long pathway’, as described by Yale Medicine, that runs ‘from the mouth to the anus.’ The gastrointestinal tract plays a key role in physiological function: anything you eat moves through the oesophagus, is processed in the stomach and small intestine to filter and absorb nutrients, and finally, the waste exits the body through the colon and rectum. A tumour can develop anywhere along the digestive tract, including any of these organs.

What are the signs?

Symptoms may only occur once the tumour has advanced. Also, symptoms depend on the type of tumour. For example, oesophageal cancer may present with trouble swallowing, and those diagnosed with gastric cancer may develop symptoms similar to an ulcer, such as reduced appetite, pain, bloating and indigestion. Conversely, changes in bowel movements and bleeding are associated with colorectal cancer.

How do you diagnose gastrointestinal cancer?

The following tests may be ordered to check for gastrointestinal cancer:

• Endoscopy is a minimally invasive investigative procedure to assess the oesophageal and gastric linings, with the aim of identifying tumours.
• Colonoscopy is a procedure that uses a lighted scope with a camera attached (colonoscope) to examine the colon and rectum and check for polyps.
• Imaging studies (ultrasound, X-ray, MRI and CT scan) are ordered to identify abnormal tissue in the digestive tract.
• A biopsy involves the surgical removal of a tissue sample for further analysis.

How do you treat gastrointestinal cancer?

Surgery may be the first approach when the tumour appears easily accessible. However, when the tumour remains inaccessible or is too risky to operate on, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy may be viable treatment options. Treatment is a team effort, consisting of doctors from related fields, such as general surgeons and oncologists, to ensure patients receive comprehensive, high-quality healthcare.