Diagnostic and therapeutic approaches in the treatment of gastric cancer – a scoping review

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.2478/AMB-2026-0035

Keywords:

gastric cancer, H. Pylori, pathoanatomy, staging, treatment

Abstract

Abstract. Gastric carcinoma poses a significant clinical challenge and remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related mortality worldwide. Accurate classification of these tumors based on their histology, anatomical location, and molecular characteristics is essential, as it dictates both prognosis and therapeutic strategy. Objective: to review the key classification systems that underpin the current understanding and treatment of gastric cancer, and to analyze new approaches to diagnosis and treatment through a systematic review of scientific publications. Materials and Methods: we conducted a scoping review by searching for scientific publications in various sources – databases and printed literature, articles, textbooks, monographs, etc. Results and Discussion: 
Lauren’s histological classification distinguishes between intestinal and diffuse types, which have different etiologies and prognoses. The anatomical location, especially the distinction between cardia and non-cardia cancer, is also important. The evolving understanding of its biology, including the key role of H. pylori, hereditary syndromes, such as HDGC, and the clinical significance of TCGA molecular subtypes, has been changing the epidemiological landscape and shaping the current paradigm of multidisciplinary, multimodal treatment. Radical surgical treatment and adequate lymph node dissection determine the outcome of the disease. Advances in perioperative systemic treatments and a personalized approach based on biomarkers, such as MSI status for immunotherapy, improve treatment outcomes.

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Published

06.02.2026

How to Cite

Angelov, K. ., Nachev, N. ., Yordanov, E., Stoyanova, S., Khayat, N., Sharkov, A., Zlatarov, A., & Dyulgerov, T. . (2026). Diagnostic and therapeutic approaches in the treatment of gastric cancer – a scoping review. Acta Medica Bulgarica, 53(Suppl 1), 232-238. https://doi.org/10.2478/AMB-2026-0035