Metastatic Gastroesophageal Junction Adenocarcinoma
Understanding Metastatic Gastroesophageal Junction Adenocarcinoma
Metastatic Gastroesophageal Junction Adenocarcinoma, or MGEJAC, is a form of cancer that begins in the glandular cells lining the gastroesophageal junction (GEJ). The GEJ is the area at the junction between the stomach and the esophagus where they meet.
MGEJAC is a rare form of cancer, accounting for only about 7% of all gastroesophageal cancers. But due to its aggressive nature, it is often difficult to diagnose and treat.
Symptoms of MGEJAC can include:
- Persistent indigestion, heartburn, or difficulty swallowing
- Pain in the upper abdomen
- Unintended weight loss
- Loss of appetite
- Feeling full, even after eating small amounts
- Vomiting
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
MGEJAC usually begins as a slow-growing cancer that can spread (metastasize) beyond the GEJ to other parts of the body, including lymph nodes and other organs. Metastatic MGEJAC can be very difficult to treat, and once it has spread the prognosis is usually poor.
Diagnosing MGEJAC may include imaging tests such as an endoscopy, CT scan, or MRI to check for abnormal growths. If abnormal cells are found, a biopsy may be done to identify the type of cancer and whether it has spread.
Treatment of MGEJAC may include surgery to remove the tumor, radiation therapy to shrink the tumor, chemotherapy to shrink or slow the growth of the tumor, and/or targeted therapy to interrupt the cancer’s ability to grow and spread.
It is important to understand the risks and symptoms of MGEJAC in order to take action quickly if symptoms develop. If you have any concerns, discuss them with your healthcare provider as soon as possible.