A biopsy of your appendix is the only way to determine whether you have cancer. In most cases, this will be performed within two to three weeks of your diagnosis. However, if you notice any of these symptoms, it is best to consult with your doctor to find out more about your risk.
Early stage appendix cancer is typically asymptomatic, and symptoms are not immediately apparent. Later stages, however, may lead to the disease spreading to other organs. Pseudomyxoma peritonei, a condition caused by an appendix tumor that ruptures, will present symptoms. Tumor cells secrete a protein gel called mucin, which can collect in the abdominal cavity.
There are many different types of appendix cancer. Non-mucinous (colonic-type) tumors develop in the appendix’s epithelial lining and produce mucus. They are the most common type, and tend to spread throughout the abdominal cavity. The second most common type of appendix cancer is adenocarcinoma, or goblet cell cancer. These cancers are typically found in people in their 50s.
Although appendix cancer symptoms are usually unrecognized in the early stages, it is important to seek medical care if you notice any of these symptoms. If you suspect you have cancer, it is important to consult your doctor and get tested. It is important to get screened because even if you don’t have symptoms, you might already have a more serious underlying condition. If you have a family history of appendicitis or other cancers, you may want to discuss it with your doctor.
If your appendix is leaking, you may have appendix cancer. This type of cancer is not diagnosed in the early stages, but it can spread to other organs of the body. A ruptured appendix can cause mucus fluid to fill the abdominal cavity. If the tumor ruptures, it will need to be removed. If you have an appendectomy, you will need to have it performed.
A cancer of the appendix may cause no symptoms. Until the cancer is in its advanced stages, symptoms can occur. Depending on the type, the symptoms may be a sign of another ailment. It is recommended that you visit your doctor to get a diagnosis of the disease. In the worst case scenario, surgery will remove the tumor. Fortunately, most appendix tumors do not spread.
Although there are many symptoms of appendix cancer, the majority of cases are not fatal. Symptoms of this type of cancer may not be obvious, and a doctor must carefully examine your abdomen to make sure that nothing is causing the pain. In addition to pain, cancer of the appendix can also cause nausea and vomiting. Some of these symptoms are common and may indicate other conditions. If you have any of these symptoms, you should see your doctor immediately.