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Intestinal Cancer
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Digestive System

Intestinal Cancer

Intestinal cancer is a rare condition affecting the small intestine, a long tube connecting the stomach to the large intestine.

Overview

The small intestine is a vital part of your digestive system. While intestinal cancer is rare, certain factors can increase your risk, including eating a high-fat diet or having Crohn's disease, celiac disease, or a history of colonic polyps.

Symptoms

Possible signs of small intestine cancer include:

  • Abdominal pain
  • Weight loss for no reason
  • Blood in the stool
  • A lump in the abdomen

Diagnosis and Treatment

Imaging tests that create pictures of the small intestine and the surrounding area help diagnose the cancer and determine if it has spread. Surgery is the most common treatment, though additional options include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or a combination of these approaches.

Frequently Asked Questions

Early warning signs include unexplained abdominal pain, unintentional weight loss, persistent bloating, and occasional blood in the stool. If you notice any of these symptoms lasting more than a few weeks, it’s important to seek medical evaluation, as early detection improves treatment options. How is small intestine cancer diagnosed and what imaging tests are used?::Diagnosis typically involves a combination of blood tests, endoscopic procedures (like capsule endoscopy or double‑balloon enteroscopy), and imaging studies such as CT enterography, MRI, or PET scans. These tests help locate the tumor, assess its size, and determine whether it has spread to nearby lymph nodes or organs. What surgical options are available for small intestine cancer and what can I expect during recovery?::Surgery usually involves removing the affected segment of the small intestine (segmental resection) and nearby lymph nodes. Depending on the tumor’s location, a partial or total small bowel resection may be needed. Recovery can take 4–6 weeks, with gradual reintroduction of solid foods, monitoring for complications like infection or leakage, and possible nutritional support if a significant portion of the intestine is removed. Can lifestyle changes reduce my risk of developing intestinal cancer?::Yes. Maintaining a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, limiting processed meats and high‑fat foods, staying physically active, avoiding smoking, and managing chronic conditions such as Crohn’s disease or celiac disease can lower risk. Regular follow‑up with your healthcare provider for any underlying inflammatory bowel conditions is also crucial.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

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