Understanding Signs and Symptoms - Appendix Cancer Awareness Month
- Abdominal Cancers Alliance
- Aug 7
- 2 min read
Updated: Aug 8
Signs and symptoms of appendix cancer can be similar to other conditions and are often non-specific.
1️⃣ Appendicitis: Most cases are found during appendectomy for appendicitis
2️⃣ Abdominal bloating
3️⃣ Abdominal or pelvic pain/tenderness
4️⃣ Unexplained weight gain/loss
5️⃣ Changes in bowel function
6️⃣ “Jelly Belly” - nickname for the accumulation of mucinous, jelly-like material in the abdomen
Follow along with the Abdominal Cancers Alliance and ACPMP all month long as we share information about Appendix Cancer.
Appendix cancer most commonly presents as pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP). PMP is a clinical syndrome characterized by pools of mucin and widespread peritoneal disease. Mucin is a jelly-like substance that the body produces to protect the lining of the stomach, intestines, and the appendix. Certain types of cancer cells produce mucin that may cause organs to rupture, such as the appendix, and build up in the abdomen. PMP is classified as either a low-grade, less aggressive form, known as disseminated peritoneal adenomucinosis (DPAM) or low-grade mucinous carcinoma peritonei (LGMCP), or a more invasive form known as peritoneal mucinous carcinomatosis (PMCA) or high-grade peritoneal carcinoma peritonei (HGMCP). Overall 10-year survival for PMP is approximately 32%. However, survival is directly related to the grade of the tumor and the possibility of having a complete removal of all the tumors by an experienced surgical team.
When caught early, many types of appendix cancer are highly treatable. Cytoreductive surgery and heated intraperitoneal chemotherapy (CRS/HIPEC) is considered the standard of care treatment for all types of advanced appendix cancers. CRS refers to the aggressive surgical removal of all visible tumors. HIPEC is the infusion of heated chemotherapy throughout the abdominal cavity and is performed immediately following cytoreductive surgery.
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!
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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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