Medications, Therapies & Surgical Options
Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve outcomes for stomach cancer. Fortunately, there are several treatment options available. Below, we’ll explore some of the most effective treatments, starting with Ayvakit.
1. Ayvakit (Avapritinib)
Ayvakit is a targeted therapy specifically designed to treat stomach cancer caused by mutations in the KIT or PDGFRA genes. These mutations can drive the uncontrolled growth of cancer cells. Ayvakit works by blocking the signals from these genes, stopping cancer cells from growing and spreading.
This medication is particularly useful for advanced gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs), a rare type of stomach cancer. It targets the root genetic cause of the tumor, making it more effective than traditional treatments in patients with specific mutations.
2. Surgery
Surgery is one of the most common treatments for stomach cancer, especially when the cancer is diagnosed early. The goal is to remove the cancerous tissue. Depending on the stage and location of the cancer, the following types of surgery may be performed:
- Subtotal gastrectomy. Removes part of the stomach.
- Total gastrectomy. Removes the entire stomach and connects the esophagus directly to the small intestine.
Surgery can completely eliminate the cancer if it hasn’t spread beyond the stomach. For advanced stages, surgery may also relieve symptoms like stomach pain or bleeding.
3. Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells or stop them from growing. It can be administered orally or through intravenous (IV) injections. Common chemotherapy drugs for stomach cancer include 5-FU (fluorouracil), cisplatin and oxaliplatin. Chemotherapy may be given:
- Before surgery (neoadjuvant chemotherapy). To shrink the tumor and make it easier to remove.
- After surgery (adjuvant chemotherapy). To kill any remaining cancer cells.
- As a standalone treatment. For advanced or inoperable cancer.
Chemotherapy can target cancer cells throughout the body, making it a good option for cancers that have spread beyond the stomach.
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4. Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams, such as X-rays or protons, to destroy cancer cells. For stomach cancer, it is often combined with chemotherapy to increase effectiveness. Radiation is usually focused directly on the tumor to minimize damage to surrounding healthy tissues.
Radiation therapy can help shrink tumors before surgery or destroy remaining cancer cells afterward. It can also relieve symptoms like pain or bleeding in advanced stages of the disease.
5. Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy enhances the body’s natural defenses to fight cancer. For stomach cancer, drugs like Keytruda (pembrolizumab) are used. These drugs block the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway, which cancer cells use to evade detection by the immune system.
Immunotherapy is particularly effective for patients whose stomach cancer is positive for certain biomarkers like high microsatellite instability (MSI-H). It helps the immune system recognize and destroy cancer cells.
6. Targeted Therapy (Other Than Ayvakit)
Targeted therapy uses drugs to attack specific molecules or pathways that help cancer grow. Some commonly used drugs include:
- Herceptin (trastuzumab). For cancers that are HER2-positive.
- Ramucirumab. Blocks blood vessel formation that tumors need to grow.
Unlike chemotherapy, which affects both healthy and cancerous cells, targeted therapies are designed to focus on cancer cells, reducing side effects and improving outcomes.
7. Endoscopic Treatments
In early-stage stomach cancer, non-invasive procedures like endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) or endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) may be used. These procedures involve inserting a thin, flexible tube through the mouth to remove cancerous tissue from the stomach lining.
These treatments are less invasive than traditional surgery and are ideal for cancers confined to the inner layers of the stomach.
8. Palliative Care
For advanced stomach cancer that cannot be cured, palliative care focuses on relieving symptoms and improving quality of life. This may involve medications to reduce pain, nausea, or stomach blockages, as well as psychological support.
Palliative care ensures patients remain as comfortable as possible, even if the cancer cannot be eliminated.
If you experience persistent symptoms like stomach pain, bloating, nausea or difficulty swallowing, consult a doctor immediately. Early diagnosis increases the chances of successful treatment.
