peritoneal carcinoma

Peritoneal carcinoma, also known as primary peritoneal cancer or peritoneum cancer, is a rare and aggressive form of cancer that develops in the thin layer of tissue lining the inside of the abdomen, known as the peritoneum.

Types of Peritoneal Carcinoma

There are two main types of peritoneal carcinoma:

• Primary peritoneal cancer: This type of cancer starts in the peritoneum and is a rare form of cancer that affects the abdominal cavity.
• Secondary peritoneal cancer: This type of cancer spreads to the lining surfaces of the peritoneal cavity from other cancers, such as ovarian cancer, primary colorectal cancer, appendiceal cancer, or others.

Symptoms of Peritoneal Carcinoma

The symptoms of peritoneal carcinoma can vary depending on the stage and location of the cancer. Some common symptoms include:

• A distended abdomen (bloating)
• Abdominal or pelvic pain
• Nausea and/or vomiting
• Indigestion
• Constipation or diarrhea

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of peritoneal carcinoma is not known, but it is believed to be related to genetic mutations that affect the cells lining the abdominal cavity. Certain risk factors may increase the likelihood of developing this type of cancer, including:

• Family history of ovarian or other cancers
• Previous radiation therapy to the abdomen
• Certain genetic syndromes

Treatment and Prognosis

The treatment for peritoneal carcinoma typically involves a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy. The prognosis for patients with this type of cancer is generally poor, especially if the cancer has spread to other parts of the body.

References:

• [1] Primary peritoneal cancer is a rare cancer that forms in the tissue lining the abdomen. Getting an early diagnosis can help improve outcomes.
• [2] Peritoneal cancer, also known as peritoneum cancer, is a rare cancer that develops in the peritoneum. The peritoneum is a thin, delicate sheet that lines ...
• [3] Primary peritoneal carcinoma usually manifests as abdominal distention and diffuse nonspecific abdominal pain secondary to ascites. This tumor ...
• [4] Peritoneal cancer is a rare cancer that develops in the peritoneum and shares characteristics of ovarian cancer.
• [5] Aug 30, 2022 — Peritoneal carcinomatosis is a rare form of cancer affecting the peritoneum, the thin membrane surrounding your abdominal organs.

Peritoneal carcinoma, also known as peritoneal cancer, can cause a range of symptoms that may vary in severity and duration. Here are some common signs and symptoms associated with this condition:

• Abdominal discomfort or pain: This is one of the most common symptoms of peritoneal carcinoma, caused by gas, indigestion, pressure, swelling, bloating, or cramps in the abdominal area [2].
• Feeling of fullness: Patients may experience a feeling of fullness or bloating in the abdomen, even after eating small amounts of food [2].
• Abdominal distention: As the disease progresses, the abdomen may become swollen and tender to the touch [1].
• Shortness of breath: In its later stages, peritoneal cancer can cause shortness of breath due to fluid accumulation in the abdominal cavity [1].
• Fatigue: Patients may experience extreme fatigue as a result of the disease's progression [8].
• Loss of appetite: A decrease in appetite is another common symptom of peritoneal carcinoma [4], [9].
• Bowel changes: Some patients may experience bowel changes, such as constipation or diarrhea, due to the tumor's impact on the digestive system [3].
• Abdominal mass: In some cases, a palpable abdominal mass or lump may be felt during a physical examination [6].

It is essential to note that these symptoms can also be associated with other conditions, and only a medical professional can accurately diagnose peritoneal carcinoma. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is crucial to consult a doctor for proper evaluation and treatment.

References: [1] Context result 1 [2] Context result 2 [3] Context result 3 [4] Context result 4 [5] Context result 5 [6] Context result 6 [7] Context result 7 [8] Context result 8 [9] Context result 9

Diagnostic Imaging for Peritoneal Carcinoma

Peritoneal carcinoma, also known as primary peritoneal cancer, can be challenging to diagnose due to its rarity and similarity in characteristics with other cancers [3]. However, various diagnostic tests are used to confirm the presence of this disease.

• Computed Tomography (CT) Scan: A CT scan is a common imaging test used to detect peritoneal carcinoma. It captures detailed images of the abdominal cavity, helping doctors pinpoint the location of cancer cells and potential cancer spread [7].
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): An MRI scan can also be used to diagnose peritoneal carcinoma. This imaging study provides high-resolution images of the internal organs, including the peritoneum [4].
• Positron-Emission Tomography (PET) Scan: A PET scan is another diagnostic tool that may be used to detect peritoneal carcinoma. It helps identify areas of cancer activity in the body [1].
• Imaging Studies for Disease Confirmation: Patients typically undergo either a CT scan or MRI of the abdomen and pelvis to confirm the presence of new or recurrent disease in the peritoneum [4].

Additional Diagnostic Tests

In some cases, additional diagnostic tests may be performed to aid in the diagnosis of peritoneal carcinoma. These can include:

• Lab Work: Laboratory tests may be conducted to look for biomarkers or other signs of cancer [9].
• Laparoscopy: A laparoscopy procedure may be used to visually examine the abdominal cavity and confirm the presence of cancer cells [9].

References

[1] Diagnostic imaging for peritoneal cancer · Computed tomography (CT) scan · Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) · Positron-emission tomography (PET) scan. [3] May 24, 2019 — Peritoneal cancer is difficult to diagnose. Other cancers share similar characteristics, complicating the diagnostic process. A combination of ... [4] Patients have either a CT scan or MRI of the abdomen and pelvis to confirm the presence of new or recurrent disease in the peritoneum. These imaging studies are ... [7] Imaging tests like CT or MRI scans capture fine details of the abdominal cavity and help doctors pinpoint the location of cancer cells and potential cancer ... [9] May 8, 2024 — You may have lab work and a CT scan to look for masses in the ovary or other places. Some patients may have a laparoscopy. During this procedure ...

Treatment Options for Peritoneal Carcinoma

Peritoneal carcinoma, also known as primary peritoneal cancer, is a rare and aggressive type of cancer that affects the lining of the abdominal cavity. While treatment options are limited, various therapies can help manage the disease.

• Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy is often used to treat peritoneal carcinoma, especially in advanced stages. The most common drugs for treating this condition include:

  • Cisplatin
  • Pemetrexed
  • Gemcitabine
  • Vinorelbine

  • Carboplatin

    These medications work by killing cancer cells or slowing their growth.

• Targeted Therapy: Targeted therapy may be used to treat some advanced primary peritoneal carcinoma. This type of treatment involves using drugs that specifically target the cancer cells, reducing harm to healthy cells.

• Surgery and HIPEC: In some cases, surgically removing any visible tumor or cancer (CRS) and delivering heated chemotherapy drugs into the abdomen (HIPEC) may be recommended.

  These treatments can help alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life.
  

Combination Therapy

The combination of paclitaxel and carboplatin is a reasonable first-line therapy for peritoneal carcinoma, with the addition of a third agent (etoposide or gemcitabine) being considered in some cases [4].

References:

• [1] Intravenous chemotherapy regimens · Paclitaxel 135-175 mg/m2 IV infused over 3 h plus carboplatin AUC 5-7.5 IV infused over 30-60 min every 21 d
• [6] Types of chemotherapy. The most common drugs for treating peritoneal mesothelioma are: cisplatin; pemetrexed; gemcitabine; vinorelbine; carboplatin.
• [8] Drugs used in chemotherapy, such as paclitaxel, gemcitabine hydrochloride, pegylated liposomal doxorubicin hydrochloride, topotecan hydrochloride, work in ...
• [9] Surgically removing any visible tumor or cancer (CRS); Delivering heated chemotherapy drugs into the abdomen (HIPEC). The first phase of treatment, CRS, ...

Differential Diagnosis of Peritoneal Carcinoma

Peritoneal carcinoma, also known as peritoneal carcinomatosis, is a condition where cancer cells spread to the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum). The differential diagnosis of peritoneal carcinoma involves identifying other conditions that may present with similar symptoms and imaging findings.

**