Luckily, there are many different kinds of appendix cancer. The two most common types are the non-mucinous and the adenocarcinoid. Both types of tumors start in the cells that line the appendix. This tissue is known to produce mucin, a substance that protects the lining of the digestive tract and stomach. When these cells begin to grow uncontrollably, they begin to form a tumor. The first type of cancer is called an adenocarcinoma, and is the most common type of appendix cancer.
Appendix cancer is treated with surgery. The extent of the surgery depends on where the cancer has spread. In a right hemicolectomy, the appendix and part of the large intestine are removed. In approximately 30% of cases, the cancer may have spread to the lymph nodes. The more extensive surgery may be needed if the tumor has metastasized to another organ. If the cancer has spread to the lungs or liver, it will likely have to be removed. After the surgery, chemotherapy is often required.
There are no specific appendix cancer symptoms. Most cases will not produce any symptoms, but in later stages, it can spread to other parts of the body. Some types of appendix cancer can rupture and fill the abdominal cavity with mucus fluid. If this happens, you should seek medical treatment immediately. In some cases, cancer may spread to other areas of the body before it is detected. In such a case, the cancer may need to be removed via surgery.
Most cases of appendix cancer remain localized. Surgical removal of the appendix is the standard of treatment. It is important to see a doctor immediately if you notice any of these symptoms. However, if the cancer has spread to other parts of the body, it may require more aggressive treatments such as chemotherapy or a hemicolectomy. This type of surgery is often associated with risk of rupture.
While many appendix cancer symptoms are common, some are less common. For example, a sharp pain in the lower right area of the abdomen is not a sign of a tumor. A few other less common signs and symptoms of appendix cancer include fever, diarrhea, and hard stools. Besides the pain in the abdomen, the patient may also experience loss of appetite or shortness of breath. These symptoms are all signs of appendix cancer. If they occur, the doctor will perform an exam to diagnose the condition.
Early stage appendix cancer has no symptoms. It can only be diagnosed at later stages, after it has spread to other organs. The most common symptom of this cancer is a lump in the abdominal area. The tumor may be hard to find at the earliest stage, but it will be noticeable when it has spread to other areas of the body. After the cancer has spread, it is usually treated with chemotherapy.
