What types of cancer can metastasize to the stomach?

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Last updated: June 12, 2025View editorial policy

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From the Guidelines

Cancers that can metastasize to the stomach include breast cancer, lung cancer, esophageal cancer, melanoma, ovarian cancer, pancreatic cancer, colorectal cancer, and lymphoma, with the most common being breast and lung cancer. These types of cancer can spread to the stomach through lymphatic or hematogenous routes, or by direct invasion from adjacent organs 1. The symptoms of gastric metastases may include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, gastrointestinal bleeding, or weight loss, though some patients remain asymptomatic. Diagnosis usually involves endoscopy with biopsy, and treatment depends on the primary cancer type, extent of disease, and patient's overall condition 1.

Some of the key points to consider in the management of gastric metastases include:

  • The importance of systemic therapy for the primary cancer rather than local treatment of the gastric metastasis 1
  • The need for palliative interventions for symptomatic relief 1
  • The role of biomarker testing, including HER2 status, microsatellite instability (MSI) status, and the expression of programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1), in guiding treatment decisions 1
  • The use of targeted therapies, such as trastuzumab, nivolumab, and pembrolizumab, in the treatment of patients with locally advanced or metastatic disease 1

It's worth noting that the management of gastric metastases is challenging, and a multidisciplinary team approach is essential for optimal patient care 1. Additionally, the treatment of metastatic gastric cancer is constantly evolving, and new therapies and approaches are being developed and tested in clinical trials 1.

From the Research

Types of Cancer that can Metastasize to the Stomach

  • Breast cancer: Studies have shown that breast cancer can metastasize to the stomach 2, 3, 4, 5.
  • Colorectal cancer: Colorectal cancer has also been found to metastasize to the stomach 2, 3, 4.
  • Other types of cancer: Although not directly mentioned in the context of stomach metastasis, other cancers such as prostate, renal cell, ovarian, and pancreatic cancers have been discussed in relation to capecitabine treatment 3.

Characteristics of Cancers that Metastasize to the Stomach

  • High levels of thymidine phosphorylase: Cancers with high levels of this enzyme, such as breast and colorectal cancer, may be more likely to metastasize to the stomach 3, 4.
  • Response to capecitabine: Cancers that respond to capecitabine, such as breast and colorectal cancer, may also be more likely to metastasize to the stomach 2, 3, 4.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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