The appendix is a small, finger-like organ situated in the area where the small and large intestines join. In a rare scenario, the normal cells in the appendix undergo genetic mutations and divide uncontrollably. This uncontrollable growth can form tumors and eventually lead to appendix cancer.
Although researchers are still trying to find the exact cause of this cancer, certain risk factors can increase the risk of appendix cancer.
Table of Contents
Understanding the Possible Risk Factors of Appendix Cancer
The following are some factors that may contribute to the development of appendix cancer:
Age
Although appendix cancer can affect people of all ages, most of the cases are diagnosed in individuals over the age of 50. It may happen due to age-related changes in cellular growth and DNA replication.
Inflammation
Those suffering from inflammatory conditions like appendicitis or inflammatory bowel disease are at an increased risk of cancerous growth in the appendix.
Hereditary conditions
A few genetic syndromes like Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP) and Muir-Torre syndrome can increase the risk.
Prior abdominal surgery
Individuals with a history of abdominal surgeries, particularly those involving the appendix, can develop appendix cancer.
Tumors in nearby organs
The presence of tumors in adjacent organs, such as the colon or ovaries, can increase the risk of this type of cancer.
Symptoms of Appendix Cancer
Symptoms may vary depending on the subtypes of the cancer and the spread of this cancer. The following are some common appendix cancer symptoms:
Abdominal pain
Persistent or intermittent pain in the lower right abdomen may gradually worsen over time.
Changes in bowel habits
Digestion issues that eventually lead to diarrhea, constipation, or a combination of both.
Abdominal swelling or bloating
As the tumor grows, it may lead to noticeable abdominal swelling or cause bloating.
Pelvic pain or discomfort
In more advanced cases, the tumor may spread to the ovaries or nearby organs, leading to pelvic pain or discomfort.
Apart from these evident signs, individuals may experience the following symptoms:
- Loss of appetite
- Unexplained weight loss.
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fatigue and weakness
These symptoms are not exclusive to appendix cancer and may indicate other less serious conditions. However, if these symptoms persist or worsen over time, it is crucial to consult a primary care physician for a proper evaluation and diagnosis.
Diagnosis of Appendix Cancer
Diagnostic testing helps healthcare providers assess the presence of a tumor in the appendix, determine its characteristics, and stage the cancer. The following are some of the common diagnostic methods for appendix cancer:
Imaging Tests
- Ultrasound: a non-invasive procedure that uses sound waves to create images of the abdomen. It allows healthcare professionals to visualize the appendix and surrounding organs.
- CT Scan (Computed Tomography): helps detect any abnormalities in the appendix by providing a detailed cross-sectional image of the abdomen and pelvis. CT Scan is often used to determine the extent of cancer spread.
- MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): uses magnetic fields and radio waves to produce detailed images that may help assess the size, location, and characteristics of the tumor.
Blood Tests
Doctors recommend blood tests to measure tumor markers, such as carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) and CA 19-9. It is not only used in detecting the presence of cancer but also in monitoring treatment response.
Laparoscopy
This procedure is minimally invasive and involves the insertion of a small camera through a small incision in the abdomen. It helps provide a clear visualization of the appendix and other abdominal organs.
Biopsy
It is a diagnostic procedure that helps confirm the presence of cancer and its subtypes. In a biopsy, healthcare providers obtain a small tissue sample from the appendix for laboratory analysis.
Staging of Appendix Cancer
After diagnosis, healthcare providers stage the cancer according to the extent of its spread. Here is an overview of the different stages of appendix cancer:
Stage 0 (Carcinoma in situ)
In this stage, the cancerous cells are confined to the inner lining of the appendix and have not spread to deeper layers or other organs.
Stage I
- Stage IA: The tumor is limited to the appendix and has not invaded through its muscular wall.
- Stage IB: The tumor has spread beyond the muscular wall of the appendix but has yet to reach nearby lymph nodes or distant organs.
Stage II
- Stage IIA: The tumor has spread further and invaded nearby tissues or organs, such as the cecum (the beginning of the large intestine). But it has not yet affected the lymph nodes or distant organs.
- Stage IIB: The tumor has spread beyond the appendix and affected the nearby lymph nodes. However, there is no distant metastasis involved.
Stage III
- Stage IIIA: The tumor has affected nearby tissues or organs and lymph nodes near the appendix.
- Stage IIIB: The tumor has reached nearby organs and has spread to regional lymph nodes.
- Stage IIIC: The tumor has invaded nearby organs and has severely affected the regional lymph nodes.
Stage IV
- Stage IVA: The tumor has invaded distant organs or tissues, such as the liver, lungs, or peritoneum.
- Stage IVB: The cancer has affected distant lymph nodes in the neck or groin area.
Importance of Staging for Treatment Option
Staging plays a vital role in cancer care as it guides treatment decisions and provides prognostic information.
- Early-stage appendix cancers (Stage 0, I, and some Stage II) can be treated with surgery alone. Oncologists may recommend appendectomy (removal of the appendix) or right hemicolectomy (removal of the cecum and surrounding tissues).
- Advanced-stage cancers (Stages III and IV) often require more aggressive treatment approaches. Therefore, it may include a combination of treatment options. First, the surgeon removes the primary tumor, regional lymph nodes, and any visible metastatic lesions. Then, oncologists may perform radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and other targeted therapies to kill cancerous cells that could not be removed during surgery.
- Cancer specialists recommend palliative care to manage symptoms for more advanced-stage cancers that are not entirely curable.
Appendix cancer treatment options are highly individualized, and there’s no one-size-fits-all method. Treatment options depend on several factors, including the specific subtype, tumor biology, the patient’s overall health, and personal preferences.
For any queries or concerns about appendix cancer, contact ACTC, one of the best cancer centers in Florida, offering personalized cancer care plans under the guidance of a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals.
The Bottom Line
When detected early, appendix cancer has a good prognosis rate. Early-stage appendix cancers (Stage 0 to II) have a more favorable prognosis, with their 5-year survival rate ranging from 68% to 97%. Although advanced-stage appendix cancers (stage III and IV) pose greater challenges for recovery, the latest advancements in research and treatment continue to improve outcomes and quality of life for affected individuals. If you or your loved ones are at risk of getting diagnosed with appendix cancer, connect with patient support groups and stay well-informed about the treatment procedures.
