Adenocarcinoma of the Small Intestine

What are the treatments for the disease?

The primary treatment for adenocarcinoma of the small intestine is surgery. The doctor operates to remove the tumor and the affected part of the intestine. Tissue near the tumor, including lymph nodes, will also be removed. Often, this may be the only treatment.

What are the side effects of the treatments?

Surgery can cause bleeding, infection, or allergic reaction to anesthesia. Removing a part of the small intestine may cause food to pass too quickly through the digestive system. The person may have diarrhea and cramping. Nutrients present in the food cannot be well absorbed if the food passes through too quickly. Without a healthy diet, the person may become malnourished and lose weight.

What happens after treatment for the disease?

Many times, adenocarcinoma of the intestine is until the disease is a late stage. The cancer may have already metastasized to other organs. If the cancer comes back or gets worse, chemotherapy may help to improve the person's quality of life. Once this type of cancer spreads beyond the small intestine, it cannot be cured.

How is the disease monitored?

The person will be monitored closely using abdominal CT scans and special X-rays to check if the cancer has come back or spread. Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the doctor.