Understanding Alterations in Mast Cell and Macrophage Infiltration, as Well as Micro Vessel Density, May Throw Light on the Early Events Leading to Gastric Carcinogenesis in Obesity
Obesity is a global health problem that has reached epidemic proportions, affecting more than one billion people worldwide and significantly increasing the risk of multiple comorbidities, including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer (World Health Organization, 2024). Increasing evidence suggests that chronic low-grade inflammation associated with obesity plays a critical role in the development of obesity-related malignancies, including gastric cancer. Adipose tissue dysfunction in obesity leads to the recruitment and activation of various immune cells, such as macrophages and mast cells, which contribute to a pro-inflammatory microenvironment through the release of cytokines, growth factors, and angiogenic mediators.
• Adult patients undergoing bariatric surgery (laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy).
• BMI \> 35 kg/m²
• All participants underwent preoperative evaluation, including blood tests and assessment by a multidisciplinary team (nutritionist, psychiatrist, endocrinologist, radiologist, anesthesiologist, and surgeon).