Small intestine cancer is a rare type of cancer that arises from the cells lining the small intestine. Small intestine cancer is classified into multiple types, depending on the type of cell that it arises from. Some types of small intestine carcinoma are more common than others. Also, a few small intestine cancer types are aggressive as compared to others and demand a more comprehensive treatment regimen.
Small intestine cancer is rare in India compared to other gastrointestinal cancers like colorectal cancer. It is also found to account for only a small percentage of GI cancers.
The reason for the low incidence of small intestine cancer could be its fast-moving, "clean" environment. Prolonged exposure to carcinogens is also limited as the food rushes through quickly. Lastly, the small intestine’s in-built defense against bacterial overgrowth further contributes to the reduced cancer risk compared to other sites of the gastrointestinal tract.
Small intestine cancer, or small bowel carcinoma, originates in the tissues of the small intestine, a vital part of the digestive system. Certain mutations in the cells lining the small intestine can cause them to undergo uncontrolled division, which will eventually lead to tumor formation. This type of cancer includes various subtypes, each with distinct characteristics and treatment approaches.
There are different small intestine cancer types, and they are categorized based on the cell type that they originate from. Some of these types are slow-growing and have a better prognosis as compared to others. The following are the different small intestine cancer types:
Carcinoid tumors, a type of small intestinal tumor, are slow-growing neuroendocrine tumors that can develop in the small intestine. They often produce hormones and may cause symptoms related to hormone release.
Adenocarcinomas are the most common type of small intestine cancer. They arise from the glandular cells lining the small intestine and can be aggressive.
Sarcomas are rare, arising from the connective tissues or muscle layers of the small intestine. Its rarity makes it a challenging type of small bowel cancer to diagnose and treat.
Lymphomas affecting the small intestine involve the lymphatic system. Non-Hodgkin lymphoma of the small intestine is relatively more common than Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
This is the initial stage, where the cancer is classified as carcinoma in situ. The cancer is localized to the innermost layer of the small intestine, and the abnormal cells are confined to the mucosa (the lining of the intestine).
In Stage 1, the cancer has grown beyond the mucosa and into the deeper layers of the small intestine. However, the tumor remains localized.
Stage 2 signifies a more advanced stage where the cancer has invaded nearby tissues and may involve nearby lymph nodes. The extent of infiltration into the layers of the small intestine is more pronounced compared to Stage 1, but the cancer remains localized within the small intestine.
In stage 3, cancer has progressed further, infiltrating multiple layers of the small intestine and potentially spreading to nearby lymph nodes. Stage 3 small intestine cancer is more extensive than stages 1 and 2 and therefore demands a comprehensive treatment approach.
Stage 4 represents the most advanced and metastatic stage of small bowel cancer. During this stage, the disease has spread beyond the small intestine to distant organs or tissues, such as the liver, lungs, or other parts of the abdomen. The complexity of treatment is high for stage 4 small intestine cancer, with a focus on palliative measures to manage symptoms, improve the quality of life, and prolong survival.
In many cases, patients may not experience any small intestine cancer symptoms in the early stages. These symptoms also overlap with those of the other less serious conditions. This also contributes to a delayed diagnosis.
For the effective management of small intestine cancer, it is important for one to not ignore any persistent signs and symptoms related to the abdominal region and seek medical attention whenever necessary.
Small intestine carcinoma exhibits various symptoms. Any symptom related to the abdominal region, especially if it is persistent, should be checked by a specialist for proper evaluation. The following are the different small intestine cancer symptoms:
Persistent abdominal pain or cramps is one of the most common small intestine cancer symptoms. The discomfort can be vague initially, making it essential to seek medical attention for a thorough evaluation if symptoms persist.
The presence of a palpable lump in the abdomen can be indicative of an advanced stage of small intestine cancer. This may be accompanied by a feeling of fullness or bloating.
Small intestine cancer can disrupt normal digestive processes, leading to symptoms like nausea, diarrhea, or vomiting. Persistent gastrointestinal issues could be one of the small intestine cancer signs.
Chronic bleeding from the cancerous growth may result in anemia, characterized by fatigue, weakness, and pale skin. Monitoring for signs of anemia is crucial for timely detection.
Unexplained weight loss may be one of the most important small intestine cancer symptoms. The metabolic impact of the cancer can lead to unintended and rapid weight loss.
Blood in the stool, which may appear as dark, tarry stools or visible red blood, can be one of the small intestine cancer signs. It signals the potential involvement of the gastrointestinal tract, necessitating prompt investigation.
In cases where small intestine cancer obstructs the bile ducts or affects the liver, jaundice may occur. This manifests as yellowing of the skin and eyes, indicating liver dysfunction.
Flushing of the skin is one of the small intestine tumor symptoms that is caused by carcinoid tumors. This symptom is often associated with a feeling of warmth and redness.
While the direct link between specific eating habits and small intestine cancer is not clearly defined, a diet high in processed foods, low in fiber, and lacking essential nutrients may contribute to overall cancer risk.
Chronic inflammation of the small intestine, often associated with conditions like Crohn's disease or celiac disease, may be one of the potential small intestine cancer causes. Regular monitoring and management of inflammatory bowel conditions are essential preventive measures.
The presence of polyps in the small intestine could also be one of the possible small intestine cancer causes. Regular screenings to detect and remove polyps can reduce the risk of malignant transformation.
Engaging in tobacco and alcohol use may be one of the potential small intestine cancer causes. Adopting lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking and moderating alcohol consumption, can positively impact overall health.
Individuals should consider consulting an oncologist under the following circumstances:
The diagnosis and treatment of small intestine cancer demand a multidisciplinary approach. There are a myriad of diagnostic procedures and treatment approaches available for small intestine cancer management. The clinical outcomes and prognosis depend on the stage of diagnosis. Early-stage small intestine cancers have a better prognosis than advanced-stage small intestine cancers.
Initially, when a patient presents with small intestine cancer symptoms, the doctor will recommend a physical examination and medical history assessment. If the observations from these assessments are alarming, the doctor will recommend further tests, which include endoscopy, imaging, and biopsy.
In the initial phase of small intestine cancer diagnosis, the doctor will conduct a thorough physical examination and gather the patient's medical history. This process helps identify potential risk factors, symptoms, and familial predispositions. Further tests will be recommended if the physical examination indicates the presence of cancer.
Blood tests are crucial in small intestine cancer diagnosis. They include assessments of various markers, providing insights into organ function and potential abnormalities related to the cancer. Doctors recommend blood tests for bowel cancer diagnosis to perform a comprehensive evaluation and monitoring of the disease.
Blood chemistry studies for small intestine cancer examine liver function, electrolyte levels, and other biochemical markers. These tests offer valuable information about how the disease is impacting other organ systems and overall health, aiding in detailed diagnosis and treatment planning.
A complete blood count is essential for evaluating red and white blood cell counts in small intestine cancer. This test helps identify abnormalities, such as anemia or signs of infection, providing critical information for diagnosing and monitoring the progression of the disease.
To diagnose small intestine cancer accurately, there are various types of imaging tests available. These imaging tests create detailed images of the internal structures and help specialists determine the extent of the disease’s spread. These tests provide specialists with crucial information like the stage of small intestine cancer, its type, its size, the exact location, lymph node involvement, and distant metastasis. Some of these tests also help with treatment planning and response monitoring.
Endoscopy is a diagnostic procedure where a flexible tube equipped with a light and camera is inserted into the gastrointestinal tract. As a small intestine cancer test, endoscopy allows direct visualization of the internal structures of the small intestine, enabling specialists to detect abnormalities, take biopsies, and evaluate the extent of the disease.
During capsule endoscopy, the patient swallows a small, pill-sized capsule containing a tiny camera. As the capsule travels through the digestive system, it captures internal images of the small intestine. This non-invasive method is particularly useful for visualizing areas not easily accessible by traditional endoscopy, providing valuable insights into potential abnormalities.
Computed tomography (CT) scans use X-rays to create detailed cross-sectional images of the body. A CT scan for bowel cancer is recommended to obtain a comprehensive view of the abdominal area, and it helps specialists obtain crucial information like the stage of the disease, the shape and size of the tumor, and the extent of the disease.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) creates high-quality images of internal structures using powerful magnets and radio waves. During small intestine cancer diagnosis, an MRI is recommended to obtain high-resolution images, aiding in the identification of tumors, assessment of tumor characteristics, and determination of the disease’s stage.
Abdominal X-rays utilize low doses of radiation to produce images of the organs in the abdominal cavity. As a small intestine cancer test, abdominal X-rays can help identify certain abnormalities, providing a preliminary assessment and guiding further diagnostic steps.
Barium X-rays involve the ingestion of a contrast material (barium) before X-ray imaging. Barium coats the internal structures, and they appear white during the X-ray imaging. In small intestine cancer diagnosis, barium X-rays help highlight abnormalities such as tumors or obstructions, aiding in the assessment of the intestinal structure and function.
Surgery is a critical component of both the diagnostic and treatment phases of small intestine cancer. It involves the removal of tissue for examination, enabling a definitive diagnosis. Surgical procedures not only provide essential biopsy samples but also play a pivotal role in staging the cancer.
Laparotomy is a surgical procedure that involves making a large incision in the abdominal wall to gain direct access to the abdominal cavity. In the context of small intestine cancer diagnosis, laparotomy allows surgeons to visually inspect the small intestine, locate tumors, and obtain tissue samples for biopsy. While more invasive than laparoscopy, laparotomy is often necessary for a comprehensive assessment of the disease.
Laparoscopy is a minimally invasive surgical technique that involves small incisions and the use of a camera to visualize the abdominal cavity. During small intestine cancer diagnosis, laparoscopy allows for a detailed examination of the small intestine without the need for a large incision. It is particularly helpful to perform targeted biopsies and determine the disease’s stage with reduced postoperative recovery time.
Surgery is a primary line of small intestine tumor treatment, aiming to remove the cancerous tissue. Surgical interventions can range from resection and removing the tumor to more complex procedures like bypassing and rerouting the intestine to address obstructions or facilitate digestion. For the effective management of small intestine cancer, specialists recommend different types of small intestine surgery, depending on the stage, exact location of the tumor, and other individual case parameters.
Resection involves the surgical removal of the cancer-affected part of the small intestine. This targeted approach aims to eliminate cancerous cells and potentially prevent the spread of the disease to nearby tissues. Resection may also involve removing nearby lymph nodes to assess and control the spread of cancer.
In cases where tumors cause blockages or obstruct the small intestine, bypass surgery may be performed. This small intestine surgery involves creating a new pathway for food to move through the digestive system, circumventing the obstructed area. Bypass surgery allows the restoration of digestive function to some degree and alleviates symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, bloating, and pain. Bypass surgery may not be suitable for all small intestine cancer patients. The doctors will thoroughly study individual patient circumstances and recommend this procedure only if the benefits outweigh the risks.
Chemotherapy for small intestine cancer involves the administration of anti-cancer drugs to target and destroy cancer cells. As a small intestine cancer treatment, chemotherapy may be administered before surgery to shrink tumors, after surgery to eliminate remaining cancer cells, to kill cancer cells throughout the body in advanced stages, or as a palliative measure to manage symptoms. The drug regimen recommended depends on the type of small intestine cancer, its stage and grade, and the patient’s age and overall health condition.
If there is a complete blockage of the bile duct and the bile accumulates in the gallbladder, the surgeon may create a route that bypasses the blocked section of the biliary duct and delivers the bile into the intestine.
Targeted therapy is one of the latest small intestine cancer treatment approaches, and it focuses on specific molecules and cellular pathways involved in cancer growth. These drugs interfere with these molecules and pathways to control cancer growth, offering a more targeted approach with potentially fewer side effects. Usually, doctors carry out genetic testing initially to look for specific mutations or targets in small intestine cancer. The appropriate type of targeted therapy is recommended once relevant targets are identified.
Immunotherapy harnesses the body's immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells. While not as commonly used in small intestine cancer as in some other cancers, ongoing research explores its potential effectiveness. Immunotherapy may enhance the body's natural defenses against cancer.
Somatostatin analogs are drugs that mimic the effects of somatostatin, a hormone that regulates various bodily functions. When administered as a part of small intestine cancer treatment, these drugs may be used to control symptoms, such as hormone overproduction, associated with certain types of tumors.
As one of the most renowned cancer hospitals in India, HCG stands out as a preferred choice for small intestine cancer diagnosis and treatment for several reasons. HCG brings together its cutting-edge medical expertise, state-of-the-art technology, and patient-centric approach to create a compassionate care setting for its patients. With a multidisciplinary team of oncologists, surgeons, and support staff, HCG ensures a holistic approach to address the unique needs of patients and help them win over small intestine cancer.
The exact cause of small intestine cancer is unknown. However, certain factors have been found to increase the risk of small bowel cancer development. These factors, which are referred to as risk factors, may be modifiable or non-modifiable. Small intestine cancer prevention measures focus on targeting the modifiable risk factors and reducing the risk of cancer development.
Learning and understanding the different small intestine cancer risk factors is the key to leading a healthy life. Small intestine cancer is associated with multiple modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors. These risk factors only increase one’s chances of developing small intestine cancer; they do not guarantee a diagnosis.
The risk of small intestine cancer is high in older individuals, particularly those over 60. While the disease can occur at any age, its risk increases as individuals age. This makes increasing age one of the most important small intestine cancer risk factors.
Men have a slightly higher incidence of small intestine cancer compared to women. The reasons behind this gender difference are not fully understood. Higher historical smoking rates and increased susceptibility of men to develop Crohn’s disease may contribute to the increased risk.
African Americans are found to have a slightly higher risk of developing small intestine cancer. Asians, on the other hand, have a lower risk of developing small bowel cancer. Various genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors contribute to these variations.
Tobacco use and excessive alcohol consumption have been identified as small intestine cancer risk factors. The carcinogenic effects of these substances can potentially contribute to the development of cancerous cells in the small intestine.
Individuals with a history of colon cancer may have a slightly higher chance of developing small intestine cancer. Shared risk factors and genetic predispositions between these two gastrointestinal cancers may contribute to the higher risk of small intestine cancer among those who have been treated for colon cancer in the past.
Those with Familial Adenomatous Polyposis, a genetic condition characterized by the development of numerous polyps in the colon and rectum, have a higher chance of developing small intestine cancer.
Lynch Syndrome, an inherited genetic disorder, is associated with an increased risk of various cancers, including small intestine cancer.
Peutz–Jeghers Syndrome, a rare genetic disorder characterized by the development of polyps in the digestive tract, is also found to increase the risk of small intestine cancer.
Cystic Fibrosis, a genetic disorder affecting the respiratory and digestive systems, has been found to increase the risk of small intestine cancer.
Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Type 1, a rare genetic syndrome, is associated with tumors in multiple endocrine glands, increasing the risk of small intestine cancer.
Limiting or avoiding alcohol can be a proactive measure in reducing the risk of small intestine cancer. Those who find it challenging to quit or limit alcohol may consider professional cessation programs.
Maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise can contribute to a lower risk of small intestine cancer.
Adopting a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains while minimizing the intake of red meat and processed foods can support digestive health and reduce the risk of small intestine cancer. A nutrient-dense diet provides essential macro- and micro-nutrients that contribute to overall cancer prevention.
Quitting smoking may also play a significant role in reducing the risk of not just small intestine cancer, but various other cancer types too.
Regular physical activity has been linked to a lower risk of various cancers, including those affecting the digestive tract. Engaging in regular exercise reduces the risk of chronic inflammation, supports a robust immune system, contributes to cancer prevention, and promotes overall health.
Small intestine carcinoma, though relatively rare, demands attention due to its potential complexity and varying stages. Early detection is paramount for effective intervention, and a comprehensive understanding of the disease’s crucial aspects empowers individuals and specialists to navigate the diagnosis, treatment, and overall management of small bowel cancer.
