Appendiceal (appendix) cancer is a rare form of cancer that affects roughly 3000 people each year in the United States. It develops when healthy cells in your appendix (a small tube-like pouch located in the lower right abdomen that is thought to assist in immune system function) mutate and grow out of control, forming a tumor.
There are two main types of appendiceal cancer: neuroendocrine appendiceal cancer and epithelial appendiceal cancer.
Neuroendocrine tumors begin in enterochromaffin cells (ECs), which produce chemicals that help digestion and intestinal movement. These tumors are the most common type of appendiceal cancer and are often referred to as carcinoid tumors.
Epithelial appendiceal cancer, commonly known as appendiceal adenocarcinoma, forms in the cells lining the appendix. It includes several subtypes: mucinous adenocarcinoma, low-grade and high-grade mucinous neoplasms, colonic-type adenocarcinoma, signet ring cell adenocarcinoma, and goblet cell adenocarcinoma.
Mucinous adenocarcinoma is a common form and produces mucin, a jelly-like substance. Mucinous neoplasms (LAMN and HAMN) are often precancerous and can lead to pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP) if mucin accumulates and spreads. Goblet cell adenocarcinomas have features of both adenocarcinomas and neuroendocrine tumors.
Diagnosing appendix cancer can be challenging for several reasons, including the lack of standard screening methods and vague symptoms that resemble other abdominal conditions. Often, it is discovered during an unrelated surgical procedure. If symptoms are present, your doctor may recommend blood tests, diagnostic laparoscopy, biopsy, and imaging scans to confirm a diagnosis.
After an appendix cancer diagnosis, your oncologist will review your test results and may request additional tests to determine the stage (extent) of the cancer. The staging process tells your doctor how advanced the cancer is, allowing them to develop the most effective treatment plan to achieve the best possible outcome.
Treatment plans will vary for each patient, depending on the type and stage of the appendix cancer. Treatment options may include surgery, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy.
The oncologists at Virginia Oncology Associates will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that suits your needs.
If you have been newly diagnosed with appendix cancer, the next step is to schedule a consultation with an oncologist. The appendix cancer doctors at Virginia Oncology Associates offer personalized treatment plans using the latest treatment technologies. Our clinics are located in Chesapeake, Hampton, Newport News, Norfolk, Suffolk (Harbour View/Obici), Virginia Beach, Williamsburg, Virginia, and Elizabeth City, North Carolina. We also offer second opinions to help you feel comfortable with the recommended treatment plan.
