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Palliative Care18 papers

Adenocarcinoma of small intestine

Last edited: 4/15/2026

Overview

Adenocarcinoma of the small intestine, primarily affecting the jejunum and ileum, presents with symptoms such as small bowel obstruction, abdominal pain, anemia, and weight loss. Prognosis varies significantly based on pathologic features, particularly lymph node metastasis. 1

Diagnosis

  • Clinical Presentation: Common symptoms include small bowel obstruction (74%), abdominal pain (56%), anemia (69%), and weight loss (35%). 1
  • Physical Examination: Palpable abdominal mass noted in 25% of patients. 1
  • Imaging: Not explicitly detailed in the abstract; typically includes CT or MRI for tumor localization and staging.
  • Endoscopy and Biopsy: Essential for definitive diagnosis and pathologic assessment. 1
  • Laboratory Tests: Hemoglobin levels often indicate anemia (69%). 1
  • Pathology: Tumor morphology; annular constricting pattern (79%) or fungating/polypoid (21%) appearance. 1
  • Staging: Lymph node metastasis is a critical prognostic factor. 1
  • Management

  • Surgical Intervention: Curative resection or palliative resection/bypass procedures. 1
  • Adjuvant Therapy: Not specified in the abstract; typically chemotherapy or radiation may be considered based on stage and pathology.
  • Follow-Up: Regular monitoring for recurrence, especially within the first 5 years post-treatment. 1
  • Special Populations

  • No Specific Data Provided: The abstract does not cover special populations such as pregnancy, pediatrics, elderly, or comorbidities. 1
  • Key Recommendations

  • Surgical Resection: Primary treatment should aim for curative resection when feasible. (Evidence: Moderate) 1
  • Prognostic Evaluation: Pathologic assessment, particularly lymph node status, is crucial for determining prognosis and guiding further management. (Evidence: Strong) 1
  • Long-term Monitoring: Patients should undergo regular follow-up, especially within the first 5 years post-surgery, to detect early recurrence. (Evidence: Expert opinion) 1
  • References

    1 Bridge MF, Perzin KH. Primary adenocarcinoma of the jejunum and ileum. A clinicopathologic study. Cancer 1975. link36:5<1876::aid-cncr2820360545>3.0.co;2-7)

    Original source

    1. [1]

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