Diffuse type gastric adenocarcinoma with atypical presentation: A case report

Gastric adenocarcinoma can present uncommonly. This emphasizes the need for intensified vigilance in the absence of typical gastrointestinal symptoms, particularly in areas where infectious diseases are common.

Gastric adenocarcinoma, a common advanced-age global malignancy is typically associated with abdominal symptoms. However, atypical presentations such as back pain and respiratory distress particularly in younger patients represent diagnostic challenges. We present a case of a late-30s male who presented initially with back pain, shortness of breath, and constitutional symptoms. A diagnosis of tuberculosis was established presumptively with immediate initiation of treatment. Later on, he presented with abdominal pain and intractable vomiting. Oesophagoduodenoscopy (OGD), tissue histology, and immunohistochemistry confirmed a diffuse type gastric adenocarcinoma. He died as a result of complications from an advanced disease. This particular instance emphasizes the importance of maintaining a high index of skepticism even in atypical presentations, as well as the significance of prompt OGD alongside potential genetic testing if any. Gastric adenocarcinoma should be contemplated by clinicians in a variety of clinical scenarios, especially when handling younger patients from settings with limited resources to facilitate timely diagnosis and effective treatment.