Appendiceal neoplasms (tumors of the appendix) are uncommon growths in the digestive tract. They affect the appendix, which is located in the lower right area of the abdomen. Though rare, these tumors are generally a form of carcinoma (the most common type of colorectal cancer) or neuroendocrine tumors (cancer of nerve-like cells or glands).
Causes of appendiceal neoplasms
Though doctors do not know the cause of appendiceal neoplasms, risk factors include:
- Being female
- Being older
Symptoms of appendiceal neoplasms
Many people with these tumors don’t experience any symptoms. Often surgeons only diagnose appendiceal neoplasms after you undergo a routine appendectomy (surgical removal of the appendix). If the growth has become swollen or has torn through the wall of the appendix, you may experience symptoms similar to having appendicitis, such as:
- Abdominal pain
- Chills
- Fever
- Nausea
- Vomiting
Surgical treatment for appendiceal neoplasms
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