Small Intestine Cancer
November 22, 2024
This page was reviewed under our medical and editorial policy by Laleh Melstrom, M.D., M.S., associate professor of surgery and immuno-oncology, Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, City of Hope® Cancer Center Duarte
Small intestine cancer develops when abnormal cells in a section of the gastrointestinal tract are growing and dividing at a rapid pace — so fast that cells in the immune system that fight disease cannot keep up. The five types of small intestine cancer differ depending on the type of cell affected.
Small intestine cancers are uncommon, representing less than 1% of all cancers diagnosed in the United States. Researchers haven’t pinpointed a specific cause for this disease, also called small bowel cancer, but they have identified certain factors that may raise a person’s risk for developing it.
Pain in the abdominal area is typically the first symptom of small intestine cancer, although patients may mistake it for something else before seeking an evaluation. Other symptoms may include unintended weight loss, bloody stool, an abdominal lump, nausea or jaundice (yellow skin and eyes).
If small intestine cancer is suspected, the care team may perform a series of tests, including blood chemistry studies, an endoscopic biopsy, an upper endoscopy, a CT scan and a PET/CT scan. During this process, the care team may also assign a stage to the cancer.
Surgery is the most common treatment for small intestine cancer. It may be combined with chemotherapy or radiation therapy as part of the patient's overall treatment plan.
Getting treated for small intestine cancer at City of Hope means you are steps away from labs where new treatments are being developed every day.
When you come to City of Hope, you automatically gain access to an unparalleled array of support services to help you and your loved ones take each step during and after small intestine cancer treatment.
Our Small Intestine Cancer Expertise
For over a decade, U.S. News & World Report has named City of Hope one of the top cancer hospitals in America. We are a recognized leader in small intestine cancer research and treatment. City of Hope's small intestine cancer program offers you access to exceptional, coordinated care and makes you the focus of a team of world-class doctors and scientists.
Our Small Intestine Cancer Program Highlights
- We offer state-of-the-art screenings and diagnostic tools, including endoscopy, CT scans and genetic testing.
- Our care team members are experts in minimally invasive, robotically assisted surgery for fewer complications and faster recovery.
- City of Hope's surgical specialists are dedicated to preserving quality of life.
- We offer ultraprecise radiation therapy to target tumors and protect healthy tissue.
- Our care team has expertise in targeted drugs and drug combinations for greater effectiveness and fewer side effects.
- City of Hope performs pioneering drug research and clinical trials.
City of Hope is one of the few facilities designated a comprehensive cancer center by the National Cancer Institute.
Our developments in the areas of breakthrough cancer drugs, bone marrow transplants and CAR T cell therapy are recognized internationally.
Our leadership in research and innovation continually enhances our ability to provide novel and differentiated approaches to cancer care.