Small Intestine Cancer: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment
Introduction
Small intestine cancer is less common than colon cancer, but it can be just as serious. The disease originates in the lining of the small intestine and is often detected late because the symptoms are vague in the early stages. Mauro Medical Specialists offers independent medical advice and personalized support, so you can make the right choices for your health with confidence.
What is small intestine cancer?
In small intestine cancer, a malignant tumor develops in one of the three sections of the small intestine: the duodenum, the jejunum, or the ileum. Because the small intestine is a large and long organ and symptoms are often nonspecific, this type of cancer is usually detected later than other cancers of the gastrointestinal tract.
Symptoms of small intestine cancer
The symptoms of small intestine cancer vary from person to person and depending on the tumor’s location. Common symptoms include:
Persistent abdominal pain or cramps
Unexplained weight loss
Blood in the stool or black stools
Nausea, vomiting, or bloating
Persistent fatigue or anemia
Because these symptoms can also occur in other intestinal disorders, a medical examination is necessary to make an accurate diagnosis.
Causes and risk factors
The exact cause is often unknown, but certain factors increase the risk:
Chronic inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn's disease
Hereditary syndromes such as Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP)
A diet high in red or processed meat and low in fiber
Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption
Not everyone with these risk factors will develop cancer, but they can increase the risk.
Diagnosis and testing for small intestine cancer
If small intestine cancer is suspected, the doctor may perform various tests:
Endoscopy or capsule endoscopy to examine the inside of the small intestine
A CT or MRI scan to visualize the tumor and any metastases
Blood tests, for example to detect anemia or elevated tumor markers
An accurate diagnosis is important for choosing the best treatment.
Treatment of small intestine cancer
Treatment depends on the type of tumor, its location, and the stage of the disease. Possible options include:
Surgery – often the primary treatment for removing the tumor and surrounding tissue
Chemotherapy – may be used after surgery or in cases of metastatic disease
Targeted therapy or immunotherapy – sometimes an option depending on the tumor’s genetic characteristics
Your specialist will discuss with you which approach best suits your personal situation.
Life after treatment
Treatment is followed by a period of recovery and regular follow-up visits. Lifestyle changes—such as a high-fiber diet, regular exercise, and quitting smoking—can support recovery and reduce the risk of the disease returning.
Meet our specialists
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Diederik Visser
Director & Co-founder
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Leonard Bokhorst
Radiation Oncologist & Co-founder
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Max Peters
Radiation oncologist
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Tanja Oostergo
Medical Oncologist
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Berdine Heesterman
Medical Scientific Advisor
Read more about cancer here
Frequently Asked Questions About Small Intestine Cancer
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It is a rare form of cancer compared to colorectal cancer, and is often not detected until a later stage.
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Early symptoms are often vague, such as abdominal pain, anemia, or unexplained weight loss.
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Usually through endoscopy, capsule endoscopy, or imaging such as CT or MRI scans.
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Yes, usually with surgery, sometimes combined with chemotherapy or immunotherapy, depending on the type of tumor.
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Mauro provides independent medical advice, helps you understand your diagnosis, and supports you in choosing a treatment and during your recovery.
Would you like personalized advice regarding your situation?
Please feel free to contact us to schedule an introductory meeting. We’ll listen to your needs, work with you to find the best solutions, and guide you every step of the way.