From the Research
Skin Condition Associated with Gastric Cancer
The skin condition associated with gastric (stomach) cancer is known as Sister Mary Joseph's nodule (SMJN). This is a rare entity where a metastatic lesion occurs in the umbilicus, often indicating advanced peritoneal disease and poor prognosis 1, 2, 3, 4.
Characteristics of Sister Mary Joseph's Nodule
- SMJN is a cutaneous metastatic tumor originating from advanced metastatic intraabdominal or intrapelvic malignancies, with the most common primary sites being the gastrointestinal and gynecological tract 2.
- The occurrence of SMJN is commonly associated with advanced peritoneal disease and poor prognosis, with an average survival time of 10 months and only 13% of patients alive at 2 years 2.
- SMJN can be the first presenting sign of an occult malignancy or a sign of disease progression, and a high index of suspicion is necessary to make an accurate diagnosis 1, 4.
- The lesion can have a variable appearance, and histological examination is necessary to confirm the diagnosis 3.
Treatment and Prognosis
- Treatment usually involves systemic chemotherapy and palliative care, but the possibility of surgical resection should be considered, especially if a good response to systemic treatment is achieved in selected patients 2.
- Radical treatment of SMJN can be performed, and several cases published in the international literature have shown good survival and evolution, giving hope to patients with this disease 5.