Appendix cancer

Updated: 2023-08-08

Description

Cancer of the finger-shaped pouch attached to the colon, called the appendix.

Overview

Appendix cancer is a growth of cells that affects the finger-shaped pouch attached to the colon.

Symptoms

Small cancers usually cause no symptoms. Rarely, large cancers can block the appendix and cause appendicitis. Symptoms of appendicitis may include sudden pain in the abdomen, nausea, vomiting and bloating.

Treatments

The cancer is commonly treated by surgical removal of the appendix and the cancer. Medicines also may be used.