What is the peritoneum?
The peritoneum is a thin membrane that lines the inside of the abdomen and covers most of the abdominal organs (intestines, liver, stomach, etc.). It works as a protective layer and allows organs to glide smoothly against each other.
What does peritoneal carcinomatosis mean?
Peritoneal carcinomatosis occurs when cancer cells spread across the surface of the peritoneum. It is as if small tumor "implants" deposit on this membrane.
It can originate from different types of cancer:
- Ovarian cancer - The most common origin
- Colorectal cancer - Colon and rectum
- Gastric cancer - Stomach
- Appendiceal cancer - Including pseudomyxoma peritonei
- Peritoneal mesothelioma - Primary tumor of the peritoneum
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms can vary depending on the extent of the disease. The most common are:
- Abdominal swelling (due to fluid accumulation called ascites)
- Abdominal pain or discomfort
- Changes in bowel habits
- Loss of appetite
- Unintentional weight loss
- Early satiety
Sometimes it is discovered incidentally on imaging tests performed for other reasons.
Is there treatment?
Yes. For many years it was considered an incurable disease, but advances in oncological surgery have changed this perspective for many patients.
The reference treatment combines:
Cytoreductive Surgery (CRS)
This involves surgically removing all visible tumor implants from the peritoneum. It may include removal of parts of the peritoneum and, in some cases, affected organs.
HIPEC (Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy)
After surgery, heated chemotherapy is applied directly in the abdomen for 60-90 minutes. The heat increases the effectiveness of the drugs and destroys microscopic tumor cells that may remain.
Who can benefit?
Not all patients are candidates for this treatment. Careful selection is essential for good results. The following are evaluated:
- The type of original tumor
- The extent of peritoneal disease
- The patient's general health status
- The possibility of removing all visible tumor
That is why an individualized evaluation by a team specialized in peritoneal surgery is important.
What are the results?
In well-selected patients, this treatment has achieved survivals that were not previously possible. In some cases, such as pseudomyxoma peritonei or certain ovarian tumors, cures can be achieved.
Results depend on multiple factors, and your medical team will explain the specific expectations for your case.
Would you like us to evaluate your case?
Our team can review your history and guide you on the most appropriate treatment options for your situation.
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