Primary peritoneal carcinoma

Primary peritoneal carcinoma (PPC) is a rare type of cancer that originates in the peritoneum, a thin layer of tissue that lines the abdomen and covers most of the abdominal organs. PPC is closely related to epithelial ovarian cancer, as both cancers share similar cells of origin, symptoms, and treatment approaches. Despite these similarities, PPC arises from the peritoneal cells themselves, rather than from the ovarian tissue.

Etiology and Risk Factors

The exact cause of primary peritoneal carcinoma is not well understood. However, several risk factors have been identified, including:

• Genetic predisposition: Mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, which are also linked to breast and ovarian cancers, can increase the risk of developing PPC.
• Age: PPC is more commonly diagnosed in women over the age of 60.
• Endometriosis: This condition, characterized by the growth of endometrial tissue outside the uterus, may increase the risk of PPC.
• Family history of ovarian, breast, or colorectal cancer.

Symptoms

Symptoms of primary peritoneal carcinoma are often vague and can be easily mistaken for other conditions. Common symptoms include:

• Abdominal bloating or swelling
• Pelvic or abdominal pain
• Difficulty eating or feeling full quickly
• Urinary symptoms, such as urgency or frequency

Diagnosis

Diagnosing PPC can be challenging due to its nonspecific symptoms and the lack of a unique marker. The diagnostic process may include:

• Physical examination and patient history
• Imaging tests, such as CT scan or MRI
• Blood tests, including the CA-125 test, which may be elevated in PPC
• Biopsy of the peritoneum or a suspicious mass

Treatment

Treatment for primary peritoneal carcinoma typically involves a combination of surgery and chemotherapy. The goal of surgery is to remove as much of the cancer as possible, a procedure known as debulking. Chemotherapy is then used to target any remaining cancer cells. In some cases, targeted therapy or hormone therapy may also be recommended.

Prognosis

The prognosis for PPC depends on several factors, including the stage of the disease at diagnosis, the patient's overall health, and the response to treatment. In general, PPC is considered an aggressive cancer, and early detection and treatment are critical for improving outcomes.

Prevention

There are no specific measures to prevent primary peritoneal carcinoma. However, women with a known genetic risk (such as BRCA mutations) may consider preventive surgery to remove the ovaries and fallopian tubes, which can reduce the risk of developing PPC.

See Also

• Ovarian cancer
• Peritoneum
• BRCA1
• BRCA2