The risk factors are undefined, except for rare inherited mutations in E-cadherin.

[2] Diffuse stomach cancer is characterized by the presence of poorly differentiated tumor cells.

Under a microscope, these appear as signet ring cells, meaning that mucin droplets are visible that displace the nucleus to one side.

Symptoms of linitis plastica do not usually present until the disease is in an advanced stage, making early diagnosis difficult.

Symptoms are similar to those of stomach cancer including: difficulty swallowing, weight loss, indigestion, and vomiting.