Deep inside of gastric signet-ring cell carcinoma

Abstract

The histology of signet-ring cell carcinoma (SRC) of the stomach has been revisited with the support of current immuno- histochemical techniques in order to explain particular features of this tumor; its great capacity of local diffusion and lymph node metastasis, also through a neo-lymphoangiogenesis. An observational retrospective study on 50 cases of SRC in stage II and III has been performed with the addition of histochemical (Alcian Blue, DDD-Fast Blue B, Mercury Orange) and immunohistochemical (cytocheratin, CD3, CD4, CD8, CD10, CD56, CD68, perforin, granzyme B, podoplanin, collagen type IV) investigations for each case. The signet ring cells, typical for this tumor, show abundant content of electro-negative sialomucins and demonstrate a great capacity of diffusion through the gastric wall. They evoke production and deposition of collagen type IV in the sub-mucosa layer through the local action of fibroblasts. The immunological response to this tumor in the gastric wall and in the metastatic lymph nodes is represented by an increase of B and T-helper lymphocytes, but not of T-killers or natural killers. The neoplastic cells are curiously able to avoid these newly formed 'lymph nodules'. An extended neo-lymphangiogenesis has been observed around the primary tumor and in metastatic lymph nodes. A careful immunohistochemical characterization has allowed a better knowledge of SRC, regarding especially the peculiar behavior of local diffusion of its cells, the associated neo-lymph angiogenesis, and poor immunological reaction.

Network Pharmacology‐Based Study on the Active Component and Mechanism of the Anti-Gastric-Cancer Effect of Herba Sarcandrae

“…e development of gastric cancer is a dynamic process that interacts with the tumor microenvironment. Survival and migration of gastric cancer are closely related to the microenvironment [32][33][34]. Collagen is the key component of the extracellular mesenchyme of gastric cancer cells, and it is also the core component of the interstitial microenvironment.…”

Development and Validation of Tumor Marker Indices in Advanced Gastric Cancer Patients

“…[43][44][45] Moreover, higher serum TM levels indicate a larger tumor burden, and these patients tend to respond better to chemotherapy. 46,47 This observation offers a plausible reason why the TMI-High group gains more from postoperative chemotherapy. In essence, the effectiveness of chemotherapy is influenced by the tumor's intrinsic characteristics and its burden, as inferred from serum TM levels.…”