Peritoneal Cancer

Understanding the types of peritoneal cancer can empower you to seek the right treatment and support:

• Primary peritoneal cancer: Primary peritoneal cancer is a specific cancer type that is nearly identical to ovarian cancer, but originates from the peritoneum, the delicate lining of the abdominal wall.
• Secondary peritoneal cancer (or peritoneal carcinomatosis): Peritoneal carcinomatosis can be seen with primary peritoneal cancer, ovarian cancer or any other type of cancer and refers to the finding of diffuse peritoneal disease at the time of surgery.

In the early stages, peritoneal cancer often remains asymptomatic. However, as the disease advances, the following symptoms may manifest:

• Abdominal swelling
• Diffuse abdominal pain
• Increased frequency of urination
• Feeling full quickly while eating
• Changes in bowel habits, especially constipation
• Abnormal vaginal bleeding
• Presence of an abdominal mass
• Unintended weight loss

• Accumulation of fluid in the abdomen, leading to discomfort, nausea, vomiting and breathlessness
• Fatigue
• Bowel obstructions that might require surgical intervention
• Urinary tract obstructions due to tumor growth, potentially requiring medical interventions such as stents

The treatment plan for peritoneal cancer is contingent upon the tumor type and its progression. The standard of care includes chemotherapy and surgery and occasionally can include HIPEC. Some potential treatments include:

• Cytoreduction and HIPEC: A revolutionary combination of surgery and chemotherapy. After removing the tumor (cytoreduction), a heated chemotherapy "bath" (HIPEC) is applied directly into the abdominal cavity. This method has proven effective for various cancers, including pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP), mucinous adenocarcinoma (MAC) of the appendix and peritoneal mesothelioma.
• Chemotherapy: Depending on the tumor type, intravenous or oral chemotherapy might be necessary before or after surgery.
• Additional therapies:
  • Targeted therapy for advanced primary peritoneal carcinoma
  • Hormonal therapy combined with chemotherapy
  • Radiation therapy for advanced or recurrent cases