Gastric cancer in young patients: clinical and endoscopic features

Introduction: Gastric cancer in young patients is of particular interest due to a number of clinical and endoscopic features. Despite of the general downward trend in gastric cancer incidence, in recent years there has been a steady increase in cases among young patients, which determines the relevance of studying the characteristics of this pathology. Objective: Evaluation of the results of endoscopic diagnostics of cases of gastric cancer detected in patients under 30 years of age in the endoscopy department of the P.A. Hertsen Moscow Oncology Research Institute. Materials and methods: A retrospective analysis of 27 cases of gastric cancer in patients under 30 years of age examined at the P.A. Hertsen Moscow Oncology Research Institute in the period 2012-2024 was conducted. Expert-class endoscopic equipment with near-focus endoscopy technology (NBI Near Focus) was used. Results: Infiltrative forms were observed in 100% of cases (70% - type III according to Borrmann classification, 30% - type IV). Total gastric involvement was detected in 41% of cases, with extension to the esophagus and/or duodenum in 45% of them. 60% of cases were diagnosed at stage IV. Histologically - poorly differentiated adenocarcinoma with a signet ring cell component predominated (89%). A case of association with Lynch syndrome was identified. Conclusion: Gastric cancer in young patients is characterized by an aggressive course and a predominance of infiltrative forms, which requires the development of special algorithms for early diagnosis and increased oncological alertness.

gastric cancer, endoscopy, young age, Borrmann classification, infiltrative growth, signet ring cell carcinoma, Lynch syndrome

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