Diffuse Adenocarcinoma with signet ring cells (13 of 18)

A bacteria called Helicobacter pylori represents an
additional risk factor for gastric cancer, particularly those
cancers occurring in the distal portion (antrum) of the
stomach. This infection may lead to inflammation of the
superficial layer of the stomach, inducing changes in the
cells that line the stomach which eventually results in
cancer. It should be stressed, however, that most patients
with helicobacter pylori infection do not develop gastric cancer. The
independent association between peptic ulcer disease
(PUD) and stomach cancer remains questionable, although
helicobacter pylori infection is known to be a risk factor for both.
Autoimmune gastritis (associated with lack of hydrochloric
acid secretion in the stomach and pernicious anemia), and
adenomatous gastric polyps, represent other precursors
that increase a person's risk of developing stomach cancer.
Chronic GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) can
cause damage to the tissue lining the lower portion of the
esophagus and first portion of the stomach (cardia),
resulting in the development of cancer at the G-E junction.