Why Choose Us for Appendix Cancer Care
At Huntsman Cancer Institute, our expert teams provide specialized, multidisciplinary care for appendix (appendiceal) cancer. You are supported by a group of specialists including surgical oncologists, medical oncologists, gastroenterologists, radiologists, pathologists, and supportive care providers. Your treatment plan is personalized based on your tumor type, the extent of disease, and your individual needs. We offer advanced surgical techniques, chemotherapy, and specialized treatments such as hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemoperfusion, or HIPEC, along with access to research and clinical trials focused on appendiceal cancer.
“I felt extremely fortunate that Huntsman Cancer Institute is right here and they had one of the only people in the state qualified to do my procedure."
Lewis Black
Appendiceal Cancer Patient
Treatments We Offer
Treatment depends on your cancer stage, location, and overall health. These are common options:
- Surgery (to remove tumor or diseased tissue)
- Chemotherapy
- Hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemoperfusion (HIPEC)
- Combinations of the above as indicated
Our Expertise
As the National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center serving the Mountain West, we’re here to offer you the latest treatments and the highest level of care available, including expertise in the following:
- Managing rare appendiceal tumor subtypes like goblet cell carcinoid, mucinous neoplasms, and adenocarcinomas
- Multidisciplinary tumor boards coordinating care and sequencing treatments
- Access to advanced intraperitoneal therapies like HIPEC and research protocols
Patient Care Philosophy
We believe no one should face cancer alone. Our dedicated and world-renowned doctors, nurses, and medical staff are at the forefront of patient-centered care. We treat the whole person, not just their cancer.
Each day, our medical, surgical, and radiation oncologists work together across disciplines to create and coordinate treatment plans for every patient. We understand cancer is a complex disease. That is why we use a team approach that includes social workers and support groups, as well as wellness and integrative health services such as acupuncture, massage, creative arts, and more.
Find an Appendix Cancer Doctor
Appendix Cancer Research & Clinical Trials
Our expert research teams are working to improve treatment for appendiceal cancer, especially in advanced and intraperitoneal cases. Through clinical trials, we explore new therapies that may offer better outcomes.
By participating, you play an active role in advancing care and helping others facing the same diagnosis.
Interested in learning more?
Talk to your doctor about whether a clinical trial could be right for you.
Clinical Trials
Make an Appointment with an Appendiceal Cancer Specialist
To make an appointment with an Appendiceal Cancer specialist, fill out our appointment form or call 801-587-7000. Our team will determine if your insurance covers treatment at Huntsman Cancer Institute or if you need a referral from a primary care doctor.
External providers can refer a patient using the online referral form or by calling 801-587-7000 to speak to a patient registration specialist.
Appendiceal Cancer Basics
Appendiceal cancer (cancer of the appendix) arises when malignant or cancerous cells develop in the appendix. There are several subtypes:
- Goblet cell carcinoid tumors
- Mucinous neoplasms of the appendix
- Adenocarcinomas
- Gastrointestinal carcinoid (neuroendocrine) tumors can also occur in the appendix
These are possible signs of appendix cancer:
- Appendicitis, which may occur when the cancer is first discovered
- Ascites, fluid buildup in the abdomen
- Bloating or abdominal swelling
- Pain in the abdomen or pelvic area
- Enlarged waistline or bulging around the navel
- Changes in bowel habits like constipation, diarrhea
Many of these symptoms can be caused by other conditions. If you are experiencing any concerning signs, please schedule a screening today.
These are risk factors for appendix cancer:
- Appendix cancer is very rare, with an incidence of ~1 person per 100,000 per year
- No well-established risk factors are known
- It is not considered hereditary and does not typically run in families
- The average age at diagnosis is around 50 years old, though it can occur at other ages
- Occurs in both men and women
Understand your risk. Schedule a genetic counseling session today.
Diagnosis
- Often, appendix cancer is first found incidentally during surgery for appendicitis or another condition
- Tissue is sent for biopsy, a pathologic examination, after removal to confirm cancer and subtype
Staging
There is no universally accepted staging system for appendix cancer.
Treatment decisions are guided by the following factors:
- Type, number, and location of tumor(s)
- Whether surgery has removed all or part of disease
- Tumor grade or how aggressive or likely to spread
- Presence or absence of metastases, which means that it has spread to other organs
When disease spreads from the appendix to another site (e.g. liver or peritoneum), it is still considered appendiceal cancer at that site, not a different cancer type.
Need help navigating your care? The Cancer Learning Center is here to support you with personalized guidance, resources, and answers to your questions.
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