1. The Purpose of the Appendix
The appendix is part of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract which is responsible for digesting our food. It's attached to the first part of the large intestine or colon (cecum). The appendix is a 3.9-inch long, pouch-like tube. The purpose of the appendix isn't entirely understood. However, recent studies suggest that it grows good bacteria necessary for a healthy digestive system. These back-up bacteria are there just in case something, like a disease, destroys all the bacteria usually in the intestines.
2. Bloating as a Sign of Appendix Cancer
But don't panic yet. Bloating alone doesn't mean you have appendix cancer. However, if this symptom is combined with other symptoms, then you should talk to your doctor. Other symptoms include changes in bowel movements, fluid in the abdomen (ascites), pain in the pelvic area and abdomen, a sudden and unexplained increase in the size of your waist, inflammation of the appendix (appendicitis) and sometimes infertility.
3. 5 Types of Tumors
Different types of tumors can grow in the appendix. The carcinoid tumor makes up 66 percent of all appendix cancers. They tend to remain confined to 1 area making them easier to successfully treat. 20 percent of appendix cancers are caused by mucinous cystadenocarcinoma. This tumor fills the abdominal cavity with mucin, a jelly-like substance. 10 percent of appendix tumors are colonic-type adenocarcinoma. Usually a diagnosis of this tumor is made after surgery for appendicitis. The remaining 2 tumors, signet-ring cell adenocarcinoma and paraganglioma, are rare and more difficult to treat.
4. Locating the Tumor
If you suspect you have appendix cancer, see your doctor immediately. Your doctor may arrange for a biopsy. In this procedure, a small amount of the suspected tumor is removed and examined under a microscope. Before this procedure, your doctor may order an imaging test that will allow him or her to see your internal organs. This test will allow the doctor to know exactly where the tumor is before the biopsy.
5. Appendix Cancer: A Treatable Cancer
Due to the nature of the tumors found in most appendix cancers, this is perhaps one of the most easily and successfully treated cancers. Often, surgically removing the tumor is all that is needed. For tumors less than 0.5 inches, removing the appendix is good enough. Tumors larger than this size may require the removal of one-third of the large intestine. After surgery, intraperitoneal chemotherapy may be given. This chemotherapy is directly put into the cavity of the abdomen. In rare cases, radiation therapy is used to treat appendix cancer. If it is used, the radiation form most often recommended is P32. It involves dissolving a radioactive phosphorus in a liquid, placing both in a tube, and then inserting the tube into the abdomen.
