Appendix Cancer Treatment in Delhi, India

Appendix cancer is a rare type of cancer that starts in the appendix, a small pouch attached to the large intestine. Since it doesn’t always cause symptoms early, most cases are found by chance during surgery or tests for other health problems. Knowing the symptoms and treatment options can help detect it early and improve outcomes.

What is Appendix Cancer?

Appendix cancer happens when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably in the appendix, forming a tumour. It’s not as common as other cancers, which is why it’s often misdiagnosed or detected late. Although rare, it’s important to understand how appendix cancer is different from more common types of cancer.

Some people have no symptoms at all, while others may notice signs only after the cancer has spread. That’s why awareness is so crucial.

Types of Appendix Cancer

There are different types of appendix cancer. Each behaves differently, and treatment plans vary accordingly:

• Carcinoid tumours: These are slow-growing and the most common type of appendix cancer.
• Mucinous adenocarcinoma: Produces mucin (a jelly-like substance) that can spread to the abdomen.
• Goblet cell carcinoid: Rare and more aggressive, it shares features of both adenocarcinomas and carcinoid tumours.
• Signet ring cell adenocarcinoma: A rare, aggressive form that’s harder to treat.
• Colonic-type adenocarcinoma: Similar to colon cancer and can spread quickly.

Knowing the type of cancer helps oncologist doctors decide the best cancer treatment approach.

Appendix Cancer Symptoms

Symptoms can be vague and may resemble other health issues like appendicitis or digestive problems. Here are the most common signs:

• Abdominal pain: Pain around the belly that doesn’t go away
• Bloating: Feeling of fullness or tightness in the abdomen
• Nausea and vomiting
• Changes in bowel habits: Constipation or diarrhea
• Fluid buildup in the abdomen (ascites): Causes swelling and discomfort
• Pelvic pain: Especially in women, it may mimic gynaecological issues
• Loss of appetite and unexplained weight changes
• Low-grade fever that gets worse over time
• Gas and indigestion
• Increase in waist size without weight gain

Several conditions can cause these symptoms, so it’s important to seek medical advice if they persist.

Appendix Cancer Causes

The exact cause of appendix cancer isn’t fully understood, but several factors may increase your risk. Some of the known causes and risk factors include:

• Genetic mutations: Changes in your DNA that cause cells to grow out of control
• Chronic inflammation: Long-term inflammation in the appendix may increase the risk
• Family history: People with a family history of certain cancers are at a higher risk
• Certain medical conditions, such as atrophic gastritis or Zollinger-Ellison syndrome.

Appendix Cancer Diagnosis

Since appendix cancer is rare, diagnosing it can be tricky. Doctors use several methods to confirm it:

• CT scans and MRI: These imaging tests help find tumours and see how far they’ve spread
• Biopsy: A small sample of tissue is taken and examined under a microscope
• Blood tests: To check for tumour markers that may indicate cancer
• Laparoscopy: A small camera is inserted into the abdomen to get a closer look

Early diagnosis can make a huge difference in treatment outcomes, so these tests are essential for anyone with unexplained symptoms.

Appendix Cancer Treatment

Treatment depends on the type and stage of the cancer. The main goal is to remove the cancer and prevent it from spreading. Here are the most common treatment options:

Surgery

This is the primary treatment. In most cases, doctors remove the appendix (appendectomy). If cancer has spread, they may remove part of the colon or other nearby tissues.

Cytoreductive surgery with HIPEC

This is a special type of surgery combined with Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (HIPEC), where heated chemotherapy is applied directly into the abdomen to kill the remaining cancer cells.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is used when the cancer has spread to other parts of the body. It helps shrink tumours and prevent further growth.

Radiation therapy

In Radiation therapy, High-energy rays are used to reduce tumour size and relieve symptoms.

Targeted drug therapy

Targeted drug therapy specifically attacks cancer cells without affecting healthy ones. It’s often used for advanced cases.

Complications of Appendix Cancer

If left untreated, appendix cancer can cause serious complications:

• Metastasis (spread of cancer) to nearby organs such as the liver and intestines
• Bowel obstruction due to tumour growth, which blocks the intestines
• Peritoneal carcinomatosis, where cancer spreads throughout the abdominal cavity and affects normal organ functions.

Risk Factors for Appendix Cancer

Certain factors may put you at a higher risk of developing appendix cancer:

• Genetic predisposition: Family history of appendix or other cancers
• Chronic inflammation: Long-term inflammation of the appendix
• Age and gender: It’s more common in people over 50
• Medical conditions: Conditions like atrophic gastritis and pernicious anaemia may increase the risk.

Prevention of Appendix Cancer

There’s no sure way to prevent appendix cancer, but you can reduce your risk by following healthy habits:

• Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Exercise regularly and maintain a healthy weight
• Avoid smoking and limit alcohol intake
• Get regular medical check-ups, especially if you have a family history of cancer

For high-risk individuals, preventive surgery or chemoprevention (using medication to reduce cancer risk) may be recommended.

Conclusion

Appendix cancer is rare but treatable if caught early. Understanding its symptoms, causes, and treatment options can help improve outcomes. If you experience persistent abdominal pain or other unusual symptoms, don’t ignore them. Early diagnosis saves lives. Always consult a doctor for timely evaluation and guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is appendix cancer preventable?

There’s no guaranteed way to prevent it, but a healthy lifestyle and regular screenings help reduce the risk.

2. What is HIPEC, and when is it used?

HIPEC is heated chemotherapy used after surgery to kill the remaining cancer cells in the abdomen. It’s often used for advanced cases.

3. Can appendix cancer spread?

Yes, if not treated, it can spread to nearby organs like the liver and intestines.

4. Is chemotherapy necessary for all cases?

Not always. Chemotherapy is used in advanced cases or when cancer has spread beyond the appendix.

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