[Early gastric cancer staging by radiology, endoscopy, trans-endoscopic ultrasonography and its anatomo-pathological...

Early gastric cancer detection is still in its more elementary step in the western hemisphere, while in Japan gastric cancer is detected mainly in its early stage. The aim of this article is to analyze the Japanese method for early gastric cancer detection and staging, by sketch of certain morphologic criterions and a report of a typical case. In our case the lesion's staging was predicted as submucosal by means of endoscopy and double contrast roentgenography. Endoscopic ultrasonography complemented the analysis. The standard anatomopathological work up for early gastric cancer in Japan is also analysed. By this former method the accuracy of the initial staging by endoscopy, and radiologic means was ensured. By a correct early gastric cancer diagnosis and staging a better selection of the surgical strategy and survival can be achieved.