What is remnant gastric cancer?

Hello, “Remnant gastric cancer” (also known as “postgastrectomy gastric cancer”) clinically refers to gastric cancer that develops in the remaining stomach after prior gastric surgery. It most commonly occurs in patients who have undergone subtotal gastrectomy, typically 10–15 years after surgery, with an incidence of approximately 1%. The exact pathogenesis of remnant gastric cancer remains incompletely understood; however, it is thought to be associated with postoperative alterations in the gastric microenvironment and bile–pancreatic juice reflux from the duodenum. Following gastrectomy, hypochlorhydria (reduced gastric acid secretion) combined with alkaline duodenogastric reflux results in a relatively low-acid gastric environment. This facilitates bacterial overgrowth—including nitrate-reducing bacteria capable of generating carcinogenic N-nitroso compounds—thereby increasing susceptibility to remnant gastric cancer. We hope the above information is helpful to you. Wishing you a happy and healthy life!