Rare Cancers: Overview
Cancer is a disease caused by the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the body. While some types of cancer are more common than others, some types of cancer are rare. According to the American Cancer Society, rare cancers make up about 19 percent of all cancer diagnoses. Rare cancers can be difficult to diagnose due to their lack of visibility in the medical literature. For this reason, it is important to be aware of the types of rare cancers and the symptoms associated with them.
Types of Rare Cancers
There are many types of rare cancers, including:
Adrenal Cancer: This rare cancer affects the adrenal glands, which are located on top of the kidneys. Symptoms include abdominal pain, a lump in the abdomen, and weight loss.
Anal Cancer: Anal cancer is a rare form of cancer that affects the anus. Symptoms may include pain, bleeding, and itching.
Bone Cancer: Bone cancer is a rare type of cancer that affects the bones. Symptoms may include pain, swelling, and fatigue.
Brain Tumors: Brain tumors are rare tumors that can be benign or malignant. Symptoms may include headaches, seizures, and changes in behavior.
Esophageal Cancer: Esophageal cancer is a rare type of cancer that affects the esophagus. Symptoms may include difficulty swallowing, chest pain, and weight loss.
Kidney Cancer: Kidney cancer is a rare type of cancer that affects the kidneys. Symptoms may include a lump in the abdomen, blood in the urine, and fatigue.
Liver Cancer: Liver cancer is a rare form of cancer that affects the liver. Symptoms may include abdominal pain, jaundice, and weight loss.
Lung Cancer: Lung cancer is a rare type of cancer that affects the lungs. Symptoms may include a cough, shortness of breath, and chest pain.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis of rare cancers can be difficult due to their lack of visibility in the medical literature. However, it is important to be aware of the symptoms associated with the various types of rare cancers. Diagnosis may involve imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs. Treatment of rare cancers may involve surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and/or immunotherapy.
Conclusion
The diagnosis and treatment of rare cancers can be difficult due to their lack of visibility in the medical literature. It is important to be aware of the various types of rare cancers and the symptoms associated with them. Diagnosis may involve imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs. Treatment of rare cancers may involve surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and/or immunotherapy.