Small Bowel Cancer
Overview
Small bowel cancer is a rare cancer that forms in the small intestine, the long, muscular tube that connects the stomach to the large intestine and helps digest food, absorb nutrients, and supports the immune system. Although several types of cancer can arise in the small bowel, they are far less common than cancers of the colon or stomach. Early symptoms can be vague, which means many cases are diagnosed later in the disease course. Treatment depends on the specific type of small bowel cancer and how far it has grown or spread.
Signs & Symptoms
Small bowel cancer can be difficult to detect early because symptoms often develop slowly or resemble other gastrointestinal conditions. Common signs and symptoms may include:
- Abdominal discomfort or cramping, which may come and go or gradually worsen
- Unexplained weight loss or loss of appetite
- Nausea or vomiting, especially after eating
- Fatigue or weakness
- Changes in bowel habits
- Blood in the stool, which may appear bright red or black and tarry
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
- Skin flushing
These symptoms can be caused by many conditions other than small bowel cancer, but persistent or worsening changes should be evaluated by a doctor.
Causes
The exact cause of most small bowel cancers is unknown. What is understood is that small bowel cancer develops when normal cells in the lining of the small intestine acquire changes in their DNA. These changes affect how the cells function and grow.
Healthy cells divide in a controlled, orderly way. When DNA mutations occur, cells may begin to grow and divide rapidly, even when the body does not need new cells. Over time, these abnormal cells can build up and form a tumor.
As the tumor grows, cancer cells may invade nearby tissues or spread to other parts of the body through the bloodstream or lymphatic system. Researchers continue to study why these DNA changes develop and why certain people are more likely to be affected.
Risk Factors
Certain factors may increase the likelihood of developing small bowel cancer. These include:
- Inherited gene conditions: Some hereditary syndromes significantly raise the risk of small bowel cancer, including Lynch syndrome, familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), and Peutz-Jeghers syndrome.
- Chronic intestinal diseases: Long-term conditions that cause inflammation or damage to the small intestine, such as Crohn's disease, inflammatory bowel disease, or celiac disease, can increase risk over time.
- A weakened immune system: People with reduced immune function, including those living with HIV or individuals taking immunosuppressive medications after an organ transplant, have a higher risk of small bowel cancer.
Having one or more risk factors does not mean cancer will occur, but it may increase the need for ongoing monitoring and early evaluation of symptoms.
Treatments & Services
Treatment Options
Treatment for small bowel cancer depends on the type of cancer, where it is located, and whether it has spread. Your care team will work with you to design a personalized plan, which may include:
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If you have symptoms of small bowel cancer or have been recently diagnosed, our specialists are here to help. We provide access to advanced diagnostics, expert treatment planning, and compassionate support at every step. Contact our team to schedule an evaluation and begin building a care plan tailored to you.
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