Small intestine cancer, also called small bowel cancer, is a rare but serious disease that affects the small intestine, a crucial part of the digestive system. The small intestine, also known as the small bowel, connects the stomach to the large intestine and is responsible for absorbing nutrients from food. This type of cancer develops when abnormal cells in the small intestine begin to grow uncontrollably, forming tumors that can interfere with digestion and nutrient absorption.
Small intestine cancer occurs when healthy cells in the small intestine mutate and multiply abnormally, leading to tumor formation. Over time, these cancerous cells can invade surrounding tissues and spread (metastasize) to other organs. Because of its location deep within the abdomen, small intestine cancer is often difficult to detect in its early stages.
Rare but serious – Small intestine cancer accounts for a small percentage of gastrointestinal cancers.
Difficult to diagnose early – Symptoms often resemble other digestive conditions, leading to delayed diagnosis.
Can spread to other organs – If left untreated, it can metastasize to the liver, lymph nodes, or other parts of the digestive system.
Several types exist – Different types of cancer can affect the small intestine, requiring different treatment approaches.
The exact cause of small intestine cancer is not fully understood, but several risk factors increase the likelihood of developing this disease:
Genetic mutations – Inherited conditions such as Lynch syndrome, Peutz-Jeghers syndrome, and familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) increase risk.
Chronic inflammation – Long-term inflammation from Crohn’s disease or celiac disease may contribute to cancer development.
Dietary factors – A high-fat diet and excessive consumption of processed meats may increase risk.
Weakened immune system – People with HIV/AIDS or those taking immunosuppressive drugs are more susceptible.
Exposure to toxins – Occupational exposure to industrial chemicals and carcinogens may play a role.
Previous cancers – A history of colorectal cancer or other gastrointestinal cancers increases risk.
Age and gender – Most cases occur in older adults, and men are slightly more affected than women.
Symptoms of small intestine cancer are often vague and can be mistaken for other digestive disorders, leading to delayed diagnosis. Common symptoms include:
Abdominal pain – Persistent discomfort or cramping, often in the middle of the abdomen.
Unexplained weight loss – A significant drop in weight without changes in diet or exercise.
Nausea and vomiting – Frequent episodes of nausea, sometimes leading to vomiting.
Bloating and fullness – A feeling of fullness even after eating small amounts.
Changes in bowel habits – Diarrhea or constipation that lasts for an extended period.
Jaundice – Yellowing of the skin and eyes due to bile duct blockage.
Blood in stool – Dark, tarry stools indicating internal bleeding.
Fatigue and weakness – Persistent tiredness due to malnutrition or anemia.
There are several types of small intestine cancer, each originating from different cell types within the small bowel:
Originates in the glandular cells lining the small intestine.
Often develops in the duodenum (the first part of the small intestine).
Usually associated with chronic inflammation or conditions like Crohn’s disease.
Develop from neuroendocrine cells that help regulate digestion.
Can produce hormones that cause symptoms like flushing and diarrhea (carcinoid syndrome).
Tend to grow slowly but can metastasize to the liver and other organs.
A type of blood cancer that affects lymphatic tissue in the small intestine.
More common in people with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS or celiac disease.
Rare tumors that develop from specialized nerve cells in the digestive tract.
Can be benign or malignant and typically occur in the jejunum or ileum (middle and lower parts of the small intestine).
Since small intestine cancer is difficult to detect early, a combination of tests is used to diagnose the disease:
Imaging tests
CT scan or MRI – Provides detailed images of the small intestine.
PET scan – Helps detect cancer spread.
X-ray with barium contrast – Highlights abnormalities in the small intestine.
Endoscopic procedures
Upper endoscopy – A flexible tube with a camera is inserted to examine the small intestine.
Capsule endoscopy – A tiny camera inside a pill captures images as it moves through the digestive tract.
Enteroscopy – Uses a longer endoscope to examine deeper parts of the small intestine.
Biopsy
A tissue sample is taken and examined under a microscope to confirm cancer.
Blood tests
Detects anemia, liver function abnormalities, or tumor markers.
Treatment depends on the cancer type, stage, and overall health. Options include:
Segmental resection – Removal of the affected section of the small intestine.
Whipple procedure – Used if cancer has spread to nearby organs.
Lymph node removal – To check for metastasis.
Uses drugs to destroy cancer cells or prevent their growth.
Often used after surgery to eliminate remaining cancer cells.
Common drugs: 5-FU, capecitabine, and oxaliplatin.
High-energy rays target cancer cells.
Used for advanced-stage cancer to relieve symptoms.
Drugs like imatinib (for GISTs) specifically attack cancer cell proteins.
Helps the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells.
Used for specific types, such as MSI-H tumors.
Focuses on symptom management and improving quality of life.
Includes pain relief, nutritional support, and emotional counseling.
Survival rates depend on the stage at diagnosis and the cancer type:
Localized cancer (early-stage) – 5-year survival rate of 80% if confined to the small intestine.
Regional spread (nearby tissues/lymph nodes) – 5-year survival rate drops to 30-50%.
Distant metastasis (spread to distant organs) – 5-year survival rate is less than 10%.
Cancer type – Adenocarcinoma has a lower survival rate than neuroendocrine tumors.
Stage at diagnosis – Early detection significantly improves outcomes.
Patient’s health – Stronger immune systems and overall health influence recovery.
Treatment response – Some patients respond better to therapies than others.
While small intestine cancer cannot always be prevented, certain measures can reduce risk:
Maintain a healthy diet – Eat a fiber-rich diet with fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Avoid smoking and alcohol – Reduces inflammation and lowers cancer risk.
Manage digestive conditions – Seek treatment for Crohn’s disease, celiac disease, or chronic inflammation.
Regular screenings – Individuals with a family history should undergo periodic check-ups.
Living with small intestine cancer presents challenges, but there are ways to manage symptoms and maintain quality of life:
Nutritional support – Work with a dietitian to ensure adequate nutrient intake.
Pain management – Medications and therapies can help relieve discomfort.
Emotional support – Counseling and support groups provide mental health benefits.
Regular monitoring – Follow-up care helps track progress and detect recurrence early.
Lifestyle modifications – Exercise, stress management, and healthy eating improve well-being.