MaineHealth doctors and specialists evaluate and treat a full range of gastrointestinal (GI) cancers, or cancers of the digestive tract. From gastroenterologists to board-certified cancer surgeons, specialists work in teams for the best treatment and care.
What is gastrointestinal cancer?
Gastrointestinal cancer is any cancer affecting the GI tract. Gastrointestinal cancer can refer to cancer of the esophagus, gall bladder, stomach, liver, pancreas, small intestine, large intestine, rectum and anus.
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GI Cancer Symptoms
Gastrointestinal cancers refer to several conditions that affect your digestive tract, including cancer of the esophagus, stomach, biliary system, pancreas, small intestine, large intestine, rectum and anus. Symptoms can vary depending on the cancer type and cancer stage. Common symptoms include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Indigestion that doesn't go away
- Bad stomach ache that can be worse after meals
- No appetite
- Weight loss without dieting
- Bloating
- Feeling full without eating a lot of food
- Blood in the stool
- Yellowing skin and eyes
GI Cancer Diagnosis
Testing patients for GI cancers can include:
- Blood tests
- Scoping procedures,
- Imaging tests,
- Biopsy and
- Barium swallow
GI Cancer Treatment
- Surgery
- Radiation
- Chemotherapy
- Targeted therapies
- Clinical trials
Liver cancer affects the largest organ in the body. The liver stores nutrients and filters toxins in the blood. Effective treatment can depend on early diagnosis. Symptoms include hard lump on the right side of the body, swollen stomach, pain near the right shoulder blade, back pain, yellowing of the skin, bruising and bleeding easily, nausea, weight loss.
Connect with Cancer Care and Services
Here are some useful links for learning about and getting cancer care and services..