What is Adenocarcinoma?
An adenocarcinoma is a form of cancer that develops in the body’s mucus-producing glands. Many organs have these glands, such as the lungs, colon, rectum, pancreas, breasts, prostate, and intestines.
What is Jejunal Adenocarcinoma?
Adenocarcinoma of the jejunum is a rare mucus-secreting cancer of the small intestine called the jejunum. The jejunum is the 2nd part of the small intestine in the human body. The function of the jejunum is to aid in the digestion and absorption of food. The five-year treatment survival rate is 67.5%. In only 32% of cases, it has spread to other parts of the body.
Disease Etiology
There is no exact well- known cause. However, certain genetic mutations, cigarette smoking, and recurrent ear or teeth infections can cause jejunal adenocarcinoma.
Disease Epidemiology
It is a rare tumor and makes approximately 3-5% of all gastrointestinal tumors. The prevalence rate of jejunal adenocarcinoma is only 0.6% in the United States.
Signs and symptoms
The patient may present with the following signs and symptoms. These are
- Usually, there are no clear symptoms, often patients suffer from vague abdominal symptoms of abdominal discomfort and pain in the abdomen.
- Weight loss
- Constipation
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Some patients also complain of dark tarry stools due to the presence of decomposed blood in the stool.
- Distended abdomen
- Yellowish discoloration of the skin and sclera
Diagnosis
The following diagnostic techniques and procedures can be used to make a diagnosis. These are
- CBC (complete blood count)
- LFT’s (Liver function test)
- Imaging tests such as USG, MRI, CT-scan, Or PET scan to find out the site, size, and extent of the tumor.
- Fine needle aspiration biopsy and histopathological examination to rule out the type of cancer cells
Treatment
Surgical resection of the tumor is the main treatment option. In a surgical resection, a part of the tumor along with some healthy part of the intestine is removed, and the remaining healthy part of the intestine is connected to preserve the intestinal function.
What Support can we Give for Jejunal Adenocarcinoma?
Jejunal Adenocarcinoma is a rare cancer, meaning it is not as well known as other forms of cancer. Without a Ribbon is an Australian organisation that provides support for individuals who suffer from rare cancers. So, we provide a designated platform for Warriors to obtain information specific to their Rare Cancer. We also provide annual opportunities for our Warriors to meet and learn from each other. If you suffer from rare cancer such as Jejunal Adenocarcinoma we can help and support you through your journey thanks to the generous donations we receive. Click the link below to sign up and become a Warrior today!
You can help us with your donation:
Without a Ribbon is a charity that works hard to aid those who suffer from rare cancers. You can help our cause in a variety of ways:
