Peritoneal Cancer
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What is Peritoneal Cancer?
Peritoneal cancer is a rare cancer that develops in the lining of the abdomen, called the peritoneum. Although it begins in the abdomen, peritoneal cancer is different from cancers that start in organs like the colon, stomach, or liver.
It can be difficult to detect in its early stages because symptoms are often vague and may not appear until the disease has progressed.
What Are the Types of Peritoneal Cancer?
Primary Peritoneal Cancer
Primary peritoneal cancer begins in the cells of the peritoneum. This type of cancer closely resembles epithelial ovarian cancer under a microscope, and it is often treated in similar ways.
Secondary Peritoneal Cancer
Also called metastatic peritoneal cancer, this refers to cancer that spreads to the peritoneum from another part of the body, such as the ovaries, uterus (endometrium), colon, stomach, pancreas, or appendix.
What Are the Symptoms of Peritoneal Cancer?
Symptoms often develop gradually and can resemble many other conditions. Common symptoms include:
- Abdominal bloating or swelling
- Pelvic or abdominal pain
- Feeling full quickly while eating
- Changes in bowel habits
- Frequent urination
- Loss of appetite
- Unexplained weight loss or weight gain
- Fatigue
- Fluid buildup in the abdomen (ascites)
How is Peritoneal Cancer Diagnosed?
Diagnosing peritoneal cancer usually requires several tests. Your doctor may recommend:
- A physical and pelvic examination
- Blood tests, including tumor markers such as CA-125
- Imaging studies, such as CT, MRI, or ultrasound
- A biopsy to confirm the diagnosis
Treatments for Peritoneal Cancer
Your care team will determine the type of peritoneal cancer and recommend treatment based on where the cancer started, how far it has spread, and your overall health.
Treatment may include:
- Surgery
- Chemotherapy
- Clinical trials
Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (HIPEC)
Wilmot Cancer Institute offers specialized treatment that combines surgery with heated chemotherapy delivered directly to your abdomen. Heated chemotherapy helps destroy cancer cells that cannot be seen or removed during surgery. Because the medication is delivered locally, not through the bloodstream, higher doses can be used with fewer whole-body side effects.
What Sets Us Apart?
As a fully integrated academic health system, we combine advanced imaging technology, minimally invasive treatment techniques, expert surgery, and evidence-based care to offer patients access to innovative therapies close to home.
Wilmot Cancer Institute provides world-class cancer treatment and care and conducts pivotal research. Our goal is to prevent and conquer cancer through innovation in science, patient care, education, and community outreach.