Differentials
Peptic ulcer disease
SIGNS / SYMPTOMS
Evidence of gastrointestinal bleeding, weight loss, early satiety, a palpable mass or lymphadenopathy, jaundice, progressive dysphagia, recurrent vomiting, family history of cancer, or onset of symptoms after age 55 years increases the likelihood of cancer.[30]
INVESTIGATIONS
Distinguished from gastric neoplasm by endoscopy and biopsy. All peptic ulcers should have repeat endoscopy after treatment to document healing.
Benign oesophageal stricture
SIGNS / SYMPTOMS
May have a history of gastro-oesophageal reflux disease.
INVESTIGATIONS
Distinguished from gastric neoplasm by endoscopy and biopsy.
Achalasia
SIGNS / SYMPTOMS
Suspect malignancy in patients with symptoms for less than 6 months, presentation after age 60 years, and excessive weight loss relative to the duration of symptoms.[31]
INVESTIGATIONS
Distinguished from gastric neoplasm by manometry, endoscopy, and biopsy.
Pseudoachalasia is the term for features of achalasia (based on barium oesophagography, manometry, and endoscopy findings) that are ultimately shown to be due to malignancy.
Use of this content is subject to our disclaimer