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CancerQuest > Introduction to Patient Information > Introduction to Cancer by Type > Gastric Cancer: Introduction > Gastric Cancer: Types

Gastric Cancer: Types

Listed below are some common and uncommon types of gastric cancer:

Gastric adenocarcinoma - The most common gastric cancer. It is usually divided into two subtypes: intestinal and diffuse. Intestinal adenocarcinoma usually evolves in parts of the stomach closer to the intestines and more frequently affects people over the age of 80. Diffuse adenocarcinoma is found more often in young patients and those with blood type A. The diffuse form is what is traditionally considered as gastric cancer.⁽¹⁾⁽²⁾

Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor (GIST) - Uncommon. Arises from cells(interstitial cells of Cajal) that regulate intestinal contractions.⁽³⁾

Gastrointestinal Leiomyosarcoma - Uncommon. Rarely spreads to the lymph nodes. Arises from smooth muscle cells in muscularis mucosa or propria of the stomach lining.⁽³⁾

Gastrointestinal Carcinoid - Uncommon. Arises from the mucosa in the gastric body and fundus. Limited metastatic potential.⁽⁴⁾

Gastrointestinal lymphoma - Uncommon. Usually evolves in the stomach, but can start in any part of gastrointestinal tract.⁽⁵⁾

References for this page:

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