Peritoneal Tumor

Tumor arising in the peritoneum. Primary peritoneal tumors are rare; secondary tumors may arise from ovarian and embryonal carcinoma, mesenteric or intestinal-wall lymphosarcoma, and from metastasis to the peritoneum of intra-abdominal or other-organ primary carcinoma. Once secondary peritoneal carcinoma appears, ascites and multiple nodular masses develop; abdominal palpation or rectal exam may detect pelvic-floor cancerous nodules. In late stage, children develop ascitic abdominal distension with cachexia (emaciation, fatigue, anemia); abdominal paracentesis yields bloody ascites, and cancer cells on smear aid diagnosis. Prognosis is grim. Peritoneal tumors arise mainly from fat, loose connective tissue, fascia, muscle, blood vessels, neural tissue, lymphatic tissue and embryonic remnants of the peritoneal space. Two-thirds are malignant. Only early treatment of the primary carcinoma can prevent peritoneal carcinomatosis; secondary peritoneal carcinoma is treated with chemotherapy, radiotherapy and general supportive care.

Common Symptoms

Abdominal mass; anorexia; lumbago/backache; fatigue; emaciation; mass compression

Causes and Pathogenesis

Peritoneal tumors arise mainly from fat, loose connective tissue, fascia, muscle, blood vessels, neural tissue, lymphatic tissue and embryonic remnants of the peritoneal space. Two-thirds are malignant. 1. Benign tumors: lipoma, fibroma, ganglioneuroma, cystic teratoma, chemodectoma. 2. Malignant tumors: lymphosarcoma, liposarcoma, fibrosarcoma, malignant schwannoma, malignant teratoma.

Treatment

Surgery, drug therapy, supportive therapy

Preventive Measures

Early diagnosis and early treatment of all tumors are the most important preventive measures. Peritoneal-tumor prevention: eat a comprehensive, high-protein, high-vitamin, low-fat low-salt diet; eat less or no spicy, rich/greasy, grilled or pickled foods; regular meals with balanced nutrition; more fish, lean meat, eggs, soy products, shiitake, jujubes. Maintain outdoor exercise to boost immunity, regular physical checkups, and early treatment when disease is found.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the Medical Oncology department; an appointment can be booked on this platform before the visit.

Warm reminder: The above information is for health science reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek medical attention at a regular hospital promptly.