Peritoneal Cancer
Peritoneal cancer is a rare type of cancer that develops in the peritoneum, a thin layer of tissue that lines the abdomen and covers most of the organs in the abdominal cavity. Peritoneal cancer is often caused by the spread of cancer from other parts of the body, such as the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or colon. However, it can also develop independently in the peritoneum.
Symptoms of Peritoneal Cancer
Some common symptoms are:
- Abdominal Pain or Discomfort: Pain in the abdomen that persists or worsens over time can be a symptom of peritoneal cancer.
- Abdominal Swelling or Bloating: Peritoneal cancer can cause fluid to accumulate in the abdomen, leading to bloating and swelling.
- Changes in Bowel Habits: Peritoneal cancer can affect the digestive system and cause changes in bowel habits, such as constipation, diarrhea, or frequent urination.
- Loss of Appetite: A decreased appetite and unintended weight loss can be symptoms of peritoneal cancer.
- Nausea and Vomiting: Peritoneal cancer can cause digestive disturbances, leading to nausea and vomiting.
- Fatigue: Feeling tired or weak, even with enough rest, can be a symptom of peritoneal cancer.
- Shortness of Breath: If peritoneal cancer spreads to the lungs, it can cause difficulty breathing or shortness of breath.
Risk factors of Peritoneal Cancer
The exact causes of peritoneal cancer are not fully understood. However, certain risk factors may increase the likelihood of developing this type of cancer. Some of the common risk factors for peritoneal cancer include:
- Inherited Gene Mutations: Certain inherited gene mutations, such as those associated with Lynch syndrome or hereditary breast and ovarian cancer syndrome, can increase the risk of peritoneal cancer.
- Age and Gender: Peritoneal cancer is more common in women over the age of 50.
- Family History of Cancer: Individuals with a family history of certain cancers, such as ovarian or colorectal cancer, may be at higher risk of developing peritoneal cancer.
- Previous Cancer Treatment: Individuals who have received radiation therapy or chemotherapy for other types of cancer may be at a higher risk of developing peritoneal cancer.
- Chronic Inflammation: Chronic inflammation in the abdomen, such as that caused by conditions like endometriosis or inflammatory bowel disease, may increase the risk of peritoneal cancer.
- Exposure to Asbestos: Exposure to asbestos, a mineral commonly used in insulation and construction materials, has been linked to peritoneal mesothelioma, a type of peritoneal cancer.
Treatment of Peritoneal Cancer
Treatment for peritoneal cancer may vary depending on the stage and extent of the cancer, as well as other individual factors such as overall health and medical history. Some of the common treatment options for peritoneal cancer include:
- Surgery: Surgery is often the first-line treatment for peritoneal cancer. It may involve the removal of the affected peritoneal tissue, as well as any tumors or cancerous cells that may have spread to nearby organs or tissues.
- Chemotherapy: In Chemotherapy powerful drugs are used to kill cancer cells. It may be administered before or after surgery or as a standalone treatment for advanced or metastatic peritoneal cancer.
- Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (HIPEC): This specialized type of chemotherapy is delivered directly to the abdomen during surgery. It involves heating the chemotherapy solution to a high temperature, which may help to improve its effectiveness in killing cancer cells.
- Radiation Therapy: High-energy radiation is used in Radiation Therapy to kill cancer cells. It may be used in combination with other treatments, such as surgery or chemotherapy, to improve outcomes for individuals with peritoneal cancer.
- Targeted Therapy: Targeted therapy is a type of treatment that uses drugs or other substances to specifically target cancer cells while minimizing damage to healthy cells. It may be used in combination with other treatments for peritoneal cancer.
- Palliative Care: In cases where peritoneal cancer is advanced or has spread to other parts of the body, palliative care may be recommended to help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
At Sanskriti Onco Care Hospital, we offer a multidisciplinary approach to the treatment of peritoneal cancer, with a team of experienced healthcare professionals working together to provide personalized care for each individual. We use the latest technology and techniques to provide the most effective and least invasive treatments possible, while also providing emotional and psychological support throughout the treatment process.