Evaluation - Appendix Cancer Awareness Month
- Abdominal Cancers Alliance
- Aug 13
- 2 min read
A physician may use some or all of these evaluation methods to diagnose appendix cancer.
1️⃣ Physical exam
2️⃣ Imaging studies: CT scan, MRI or PET/CT scan
3️⃣ Blood work to include tumor markers
4️⃣ A laparoscopic procedure may be recommended to assess the amount and location of the tumor or to determine if the tumor can be completely removed by CRS/HIPEC
Follow along with the Abdominal Cancers Alliance and ACPMP all month long as we share information about appendix cancer.
Appendix cancer is a rare malignancy, occurring in less than 1% of all appendectomies. [see References: 1] It originates from a malignant, mucinous growth in the appendix, the small tubular organ connected to the colon. Because of its location, these tumors cannot always be detected with a colonoscopy. The exact function of the appendix is unknown, but more recent studies suggest that it may house certain bacteria that aid in digestion and help replenish the digestive tract after a gastrointestinal illness.[2] Appendix cancer is very diverse and includes a variety of distinct types of tumors, ranging from mixed neuroendocrine and goblet cell carcinomas to mucinous adenocarcinomas.
An appendix cancer diagnosis will also include a description of its “grade”. Grade refers to how aggressive the cancer is, which is determined based on how much cancer cells look like normal healthy cells when viewed with a microscope. A less aggressive cancer would be considered low-grade, and a more aggressive cancer would be considered high-grade.
Arm yourself—and your loved ones—with the information that matters.
Even the most proactive patients and advocates can only act on what they know. Help us spread the word about appendix cancer!
Join us
Come visit us on social media to follow along during the month of August to learn more about appendix cancer and help spread the word!
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