Gastric cancer diagnosis after presentation to the ED: The independent association of presenting location and outcomes

Abstract Background The impact of diagnosis location on gastric cancer (GC) outcomes is poorly defined. Methods Detailed chart review was conducted to identify presenting location leading to diagnosis and treatment for GC patients at a single institution (2009–2013). Patients treated non-emergently following a diagnosis prompted by an ED visit (EDdx) were compared with those diagnosed at other locations (non-EDdx). Results EDdx patients comprised 52% of 263 GC patients. They were older, had later cancer stages (stage IV: 50% vs. 24%), more comorbidities (≥3: 68% vs. 47%), and presented with non-specific symptoms like bleeding (21% vs. 5%). Both groups were of similar race and insurance status. In a model adjusted for stage, EDdx was associated with increased mortality (aHR 1.9; 95% CI: 1.2–2.9). Conclusion Half of GC patients had an ED visit prompting diagnosis, which is independently associated with increased mortality. Efforts should focus on reducing EDdx rates to improve GC outcomes. Summary Demographics, treatment, and outcomes of gastric adenocarcinoma patients at a single center whose diagnosis was prompted by an emergency department (ED) visit were compared to that of patients diagnosed in non-ED settings. 52% of patients had an ED visit prompting their diagnosis, which was associated with an increased mortality risk.