Gastrointestinal (GI) oncology involves the study, diagnosis, and treatment of cancers affecting the gastrointestinal tract and associated organs. This includes cancers of the:

Key Aspects in GI Oncology:

Common Cancers: Colorectal, gastric, pancreatic, and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are some of the most prevalent GI cancers.

Diagnosis: : Includes endoscopy, biopsy, imaging (CT, MRI, PET scans), tumor markers (e.g., CEA for colorectal cancer, CA 19-9 for pancreatic cancer), and molecular profiling.

Treatment Modalities:

Brachytherapy in GI Oncology:

Screening and Prevention:Screening programs (e.g., colonoscopy for colorectal cancer) and risk-reduction strategies (e.g., vaccination for hepatitis B to prevent HCC

Treatment modalities in GI oncology are tailored to the cancer type, stage, and patient’s overall health. They often involve a multidisciplinary approach, including surgery, radiation therapy, systemic therapies, and supportive care. Here’s an overview:

Primary Treatment: For early-stage or localized GI cancers.

Types of Surgery:

Examples:

Esophagectomy for esophageal cancer.

Hepatectomy for resectable hepatocellular carcinoma.

Used for both curative and palliative intents.

Techniques

External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT):

Brachytherapy

Applications

Chemotherapy:

Targeted Therapy:

Examples:

Immunotherapy:

Endoscopic Mucosal Resection (EMR): ): For early-stage esophageal, gastric, or colorectal cancers.

Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection (ESD): For larger lesions.

Palliative Endoscopy:

Combines surgery, radiation, and systemic therapies for better outcomes.

Examples:

Ablative Techniques: Radiofrequency ablation (RFA), microwave ablation (MWA).

Embolization:

Focused on symptom management and quality of life.

Includes pain relief, nutritional support, and psychosocial care.