Master Doctor Phung Duc Tien, from the Endoscopy Unit at Tam Anh District 7 General Clinic, noted that Mr. Quang, who is 55 years old, had a history of Helicobacter pylori (HP) infection. As he was in a high-risk group, a gastric endoscopy was deemed necessary. Endoscopy results revealed mucosal atrophic metaplasia and a small lesion measuring about 1 cm. A tissue biopsy from the lesion confirmed severe dysplasia, indicating early-stage stomach cancer.

The lesion was localized to the superficial layer of the digestive tract wall. The doctor prescribed endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) to completely remove the lesion and preserve the stomach.

Doctor Tien performs gastric mucosal resection for Mr. Quang. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital.

After the intervention, Mr. Quang's health stabilized, and he was discharged on the same day. Following the ESD, the doctor prescribed Helicobacter pylori eradication therapy to prevent lesion progression and reduce the risk of recurrence. Histopathology results showed severe dysplastic epithelium; all resection margins were negative, and no abnormalities were detected. Mr. Quang requires regular follow-up every 6 months and does not need supplementary surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy.

Doctor Tien emphasized that endoscopic submucosal dissection is a minimally invasive technique and optimal treatment for early cancer. If the "golden window" is missed, the cancer advances to a later stage, requiring surgical gastric resection combined with chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapy.

Stomach cancer has high incidence and mortality rates. The disease often progresses silently, presenting almost no specific symptoms in its early stages, making it easily confused with common digestive disorders. Many factors increase the risk of developing the disease, including environmental factors, lifestyle habits, individual constitution, prolonged chronic inflammation, and HP infection.

Doctor Tien recommends that individuals over 40-45 years old, those with recurrent digestive disorders, a family history of cancer, Helicobacter pylori infection, atrophic gastritis, or dysplasia, undergo regular endoscopies and health check-ups as prescribed. Endoscopy is the "gold standard" for early detection of precancerous lesions or early-stage cancer, allowing for timely and effective intervention.

Quyen Phan

*Patient's name has been changed.