Primary Peritoneal Cancer

Primary peritoneal cancer (PPC) is a rare type of cancer that develops in the peritoneum, which is the lining of the abdominal cavity. It is also known as primary peritoneal carcinoma or serous surface papillary carcinoma.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of primary peritoneal cancer is not known, but several risk factors have been identified. These include:

• Genetic mutations: Women with a family history of breast or ovarian cancer are at increased risk of developing PPC.
• BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations: Women with these genetic mutations are at higher risk of developing PPC, as well as breast and ovarian cancer.
• Age: PPC is more common in postmenopausal women, with most cases diagnosed in women over the age of 50.

Symptoms

The symptoms of primary peritoneal cancer can be non-specific and may include:

• Abdominal bloating or swelling
• Pelvic pain or discomfort
• Weight loss
• Fatigue
• Bowel changes, such as constipation or diarrhea
• Vaginal bleeding or discharge

Diagnosis

Diagnosing primary peritoneal cancer can be challenging, as the symptoms are often similar to those of other conditions. The following tests and procedures may be used to diagnose PPC:

• Pelvic exam: A physical exam to check for any abnormalities in the pelvic area.
• Imaging tests: Such as CT scans, MRI scans, or ultrasound to visualize the abdominal cavity and look for any tumors.
• Blood tests: To check for elevated levels of certain proteins, such as CA-125, which can be a marker for PPC.
• Biopsy: A surgical procedure to remove a sample of tissue from the peritoneum, which is then examined under a microscope for cancer cells.

Treatment

The treatment for primary peritoneal cancer usually involves a combination of surgery and chemotherapy. The goal of treatment is to remove as much of the tumor as possible and to control any remaining cancer cells.

• Surgery: To remove the tumor and any affected tissue, such as the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or uterus.
• Chemotherapy: To kill any remaining cancer cells and prevent the cancer from spreading.
• Targeted therapy: To target specific molecules involved in the growth and spread of cancer cells.

Prognosis

The prognosis for primary peritoneal cancer varies depending on the stage and extent of the disease at diagnosis. Generally, the earlier the cancer is diagnosed and treated, the better the outlook. However, PPC is often diagnosed at an advanced stage, which can make treatment more challenging.