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Appendix (or appendiceal) cancer is the abnormal growth of cells in the appendix. They may be either be malignant or benign. Malignant appendix tumors can spread to other parts of the body, while benign tumors remain relegated to the appendix.
The main types of Appendix cancer are:
- Carcinoid Tumors (Neuroendocrine Tumors):These account for 50% of appendix cancers. Most carcinoid tumors are small and slow-growing.
- Mucinous Cystadenoma: These are benign tumors that develop in the epithelial lining of the appendix.
- Appendiceal Adenocarcinoma: These are tumors that begin in the glandular cells of the epithelial lining of the appendix.
- Pseudomyxoma Peritonei (PMP): Appendicular tumors like mucinous cystadenoma or appendicular adenocarcinoma can sometimes lead to a condition known as Pseudomyxoma Peritonei (PMP). Common symptoms of PMP include abdominal distension, abdominal pain, a feeling of fullness, weight loss and enlarged ovaries (in women).