Adenocarcinoma: Types, Symptoms, and Treatment Advances

What is adenocarcinoma?

Adenocarcinoma is a subtype of carcinoma, a cancer that originates in the epithelial cells lining the body's organs and tissues. Specifically, adenocarcinoma cancers develop in the glandular cells responsible for producing mucus, digestive juices, and other secretions. These cells are found in many organs, including the lungs, breasts, colon and rectum, pancreas, prostate, esophagus, and stomach.

Adenocarcinoma is one of the most common types of cancer, accounting for a significant portion of cancer cases worldwide. Specific adenocarcinoma types depend on the organ in which it originates.

Can adenocarcinoma spread to other parts of our body?

Yes, adenocarcinoma can spread to other parts of the body through a process called metastasis. When this happens, the cancer is referred to as metastatic adenocarcinoma. Cancer cells can break away from the original tumor site and travel through the bloodstream or lymphatic system, establishing new tumours in distant organs.

The likelihood of adenocarcinoma spreading depends on various factors, including the adenocarcinoma type, the stage at which it is detected, and the overall health of the individual.

What are the symptoms of adenocarcinoma?

Adenocarcinoma symptoms vary based on the affected organ. Common signs include unexplained weight loss, fatigue, pain, persistent cough, difficulty swallowing, or changes in bowel habits. Specific adenocarcinoma types, such as lung or colorectal, may present with unique symptoms like shortness of breath or blood in the stool.

Lung adenocarcinoma

Lung adenocarcinoma is the most common type of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Symptoms may include persistent cough, chest pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, and unexplained weight loss.

Breast adenocarcinoma

Most breast cancers, including invasive ductal carcinoma, start in the glandular tissue. Breast adenocarcinoma symptoms may include lumps or thickening in the breast, changes in breast size or shape, dimpling of the skin, and nipple discharge or inversion.

Colorectal adenocarcinoma

Approximately 90% of bowel cancers are adenocarcinomas. Symptoms of colorectal adenocarcinoma may include blood in the stool, abdominal pain or cramping, changes in bowel habits (diarrhoea or constipation). and unexplained weight loss.

Pancreatic adenocarcinoma

More than 95% of pancreatic cancers are exocrine adenocarcinomas. Symptoms of pancreatic adenocarcinoma may include abdominal pain, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), dark urine, clay-coloured stools, and unexplained weight loss.

Prostatic adenocarcinoma

Almost all prostate cancers are adenocarcinomas. Symptoms of prostatic adenocarcinoma may include difficulty urinating, weak or interrupted urine flow, frequent urination (especially at night), blood in the urine or semen, and pain or discomfort in the pelvic area.

Esophageal adenocarcinoma

Esophageal adenocarcinoma is common in the developed world and is often linked with Barrett's esophagus. Symptoms may include difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), chest pain or pressure, unintended weight loss, and hoarseness or coughing.

Gastric (stomach) adenocarcinoma

Over 90% of stomach cancers are gastric adenocarcinomas. Symptoms of gastric adenocarcinoma may include abdominal pain or discomfort, feeling full quickly after eating, nausea and vomiting, and unexplained weight loss.

It is essential to note that these symptoms can also be associated with other, less severe conditions. However, if you experience any of these symptoms persistently, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

What causes adenocarcinoma?

Adenocarcinoma causes are not always clear, but several factors can increase the risk of developing this type of cancer. Genetic predisposition plays a significant role—individuals with a family history of adenocarcinoma-related cancers may be more susceptible. Mutations in certain genes can lead to abnormal cell growth, eventually forming malignant tumors.

Environmental factors also contribute to risk. Smoking is a major cause of lung adenocarcinoma, while prolonged exposure to harmful chemicals, such as asbestos or industrial toxins, can increase the likelihood of developing cancer in various organs.

Lifestyle choices, including a diet high in processed foods, red meat, and unhealthy fats, may raise the risk of colorectal adenocarcinoma. A sedentary lifestyle, obesity, and chronic inflammation also play a role in cancer development. Additionally, conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can contribute to esophageal adenocarcinoma. Managing risk factors through healthy habits may help reduce the likelihood of developing this cancer.

How is adenocarcinoma diagnosed?

Diagnosing adenocarcinoma involves a combination of imaging tests, laboratory analysis, and biopsy to confirm the presence of cancerous cells. The process begins with a thorough medical history and physical examination, followed by targeted diagnostic tests based on the suspected organ affected.

Common imaging techniques include CT scans, MRIs, and PET scans, which help visualise tumours, determine their size, and assess whether cancer has spread. Endoscopic procedures, such as a colonoscopy or bronchoscopy, allow doctors to examine internal organs and collect tissue samples.

A biopsy is the definitive diagnostic tool, involving the removal of a small tissue sample for microscopic evaluation. Pathologists analyse the sample to confirm malignancy and identify the specific adenocarcinoma type. In some cases, blood tests and tumour marker analysis may provide additional information. Screening tests, like mammograms for breast cancer or low-dose CT scans for lung cancer, aid in early detection for high-risk individuals.

How do doctors determine cancer grade?

Cancer grading is a crucial aspect of the diagnostic process, as it helps predict the aggressiveness of the tumour and guides treatment decisions. Pathologists examine the cancer cells under a microscope and assess how closely they resemble normal, healthy cells. The grading system typically ranges from Grade 1 (well-differentiated cells that look similar to normal cells) to Grade 3 (poorly differentiated cells that appear abnormal and tend to grow more aggressively).

Adenocarcinoma stages

Adenocarcinoma staging helps determine the extent of cancer spread, guiding treatment decisions. The system ranges from Stage 0 to Stage 4:

• Stage 0: Cancer is localised to the top layer of cells and has not spread
• Stage 1: A small tumour is present but remains confined to the original organ
• Stage 2: The tumour has grown, potentially invading nearby tissues and possibly local lymph nodes
• Stage 3: Cancer has spread further into surrounding tissues and shows significant lymph node involvement
• Stage 4: Adenocarcinoma stage 4, also known as metastatic adenocarcinoma, indicates that cancer has spread to distant organs, such as the liver, lungs, brain, or bones.

Early-stage adenocarcinomas are often more treatable, while later stages may require aggressive treatment like chemotherapy, radiation, or targeted therapy. Accurate staging is crucial for developing an effective treatment plan and assessing prognosis.

How is adenocarcinoma treated?

Adenocarcinoma treatment depends on the cancer’s location, stage, and the patient’s overall health. A combination of therapies may be used to achieve the best outcome.

Surgery is often the primary treatment, aiming to remove the tumour and, in some cases, nearby lymph nodes. If the cancer has spread, chemotherapy may be recommended to destroy cancer cells throughout the body. Radiation therapy can target tumours with high-energy radiation to shrink or eliminate them.

Targeted therapy focuses on specific genetic mutations or proteins driving cancer growth. While some cases respond well to treatment, patients often ask, is adenocarcinoma cancer curable? The answer depends on the stage and aggressiveness of the disease, with early-stage cases having better outcomes.

Side effects of adenocarcinoma surgery

The side effects of adenocarcinoma surgery can vary depending on the location and extent of the procedure. Common side effects may include:

• Pain and discomfort at the surgical site
• Fatigue and weakness
• Increased risk of infection
• Potential damage to nearby structures or organs

Minimally invasive surgical techniques, when appropriate, may help reduce some of these risks and promote faster recovery.

Can adenocarcinoma be prevented?

While adenocarcinoma can't be completely prevented, you can reduce risk by quitting smoking, eating a healthy diet, staying active, maintaining a healthy weight, and attending regular cancer screenings for early detection.

What can we expect if we have adenocarcinoma?

If you are diagnosed with adenocarcinoma, your experience will depend on factors such as the cancer type, stage, and your overall health. Generally, early-stage cancers have better outcomes and may require less extensive treatment than advanced-stage cancers.

Adenocarcinoma survival rate

Adenocarcinoma cancers survival rate depend on the cancer type, stage at diagnosis, and overall patient health. Early detection significantly improves outcomes, while advanced stages generally have lower survival rates. Below are five-year survival rates for some common adenocarcinomas:

These survival rates are based on large population studies and may not reflect an individual’s prognosis. Ongoing advancements in cancer treatments, such as targeted therapies and immunotherapy, continue to improve outcomes. Early detection through regular screenings remains crucial in increasing survival chances.

How can we take care of ourselves?

If you are living with adenocarcinoma, taking care of yourself is essential. Some self-care tips include:

• Maintaining a balanced, nutritious diet to support your body during treatment
• Engaging in regular physical activity, as approved by your doctor, to boost energy and mood
• Managing stress through relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation
• Seeking support from loved ones, support groups, or mental health professionals
• Following your treatment plan as directed by your healthcare team

When to see a doctor

If you experience any symptoms that concern you, such as persistent cough, unexplained weight loss, changes in bowel or bladder habits, or new lumps or skin changes, it's essential to consult your doctor promptly. Early detection and intervention can significantly improve outcomes for adenocarcinoma cancers.

Conclusion

Adenocarcinoma is a complex group of cancers that can affect various organs in the body. Remember, early detection is key, so don't hesitate to discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider.

At Metropolis Healthcare, we understand the importance of accurate and timely diagnosis in the fight against adenocarcinoma. Our team of experienced pathologists and state-of-the-art diagnostic laboratories are committed to providing reliable results to help guide your treatment decisions. With our convenient at-home sample collection services and user-friendly online reporting system, we strive to make your healthcare journey as seamless as possible.