July 4, 2019 – Study Uncovers Origin of Cell Layer that Hides Stomach Cancer
A group of researchers from Hiroshima recently discovered the origin of a normal-looking stomach lining that covers sites of gastric cancer and makes it difficult to spot after the eradication of an H. pylori infection. H. pylori infection is a major cause of stomach cancer and causes inflammation by releasing substances that can destroy cells that line the stomach. This destruction and regeneration of tissue can lead to stomach cancer. This study found that even after treatment of the infection, H. pylori leaves behind layers of cells that seem normal but actually originate from stomach cancer tissue. Thus, clinicians should be aware of these layers as to not miss potential stomach cancer sites when treating patients who have been treated for H. pylori infection.