Yes, it is possible to survive pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP). While PMP is a rare and complex condition, many individuals have successfully undergone treatment and are living full lives afterwards. Treatment options typically include cytoreductive surgery (CRS) combined with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC), which aims to remove tumours and eliminate cancer cells from the abdomen. Additionally, some patients may undergo additional treatments or therapies depending on their specific circumstances. While the journey may be challenging, with the right medical care, support system, and determination, survival and long-term remission are achievable goals for individuals with PMP.
Pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP) is a rare and slow-growing cancer that usually originates from an appendix tumour. It is characterized by the accumulation of mucinous or gelatinous fluid within the abdomen, which can spread tumour cells throughout the peritoneal cavity. PMP typically presents with symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits. Treatment usually involves a combination of surgery and chemotherapy to remove as much tumour as possible and prevent recurrence. It’s important for individuals with PMP to receive care from a multidisciplinary team of specialists experienced in managing this rare cancer.
References
Kung V, Delisle M, Alves S, Mohammed F, Cecil T, Moran B. Health related quality of life is excellent and sustained at two decades after cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy in survivors of Pseudomyxoma peritonei of Appendiceal origin. European Journal of Surgical Oncology. August 29, 2023. Accessed May 12, 2024.
Yang R, Fu Y-B, Li X-B, et al. Long-term survival in patients with PMP: A single-institutional retrospective study from China – World Journal of Surgical Oncology. BioMed Central. October 28, 2023. Accessed May 12, 2024.
1. Chua TC, Moran BJ, Sugarbaker PH, et al. Early- and Long-Term Outcome Data of Patients With Pseudomyxoma Peritonei From Appendiceal Origin Treated by a Strategy of Cytoreductive Surgery and Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy. July 12, 2012. Accessed June 12, 2024.
More FAQs
What are the statistics for pseudomyxoma peritonei?
It’s estimated that 1 in 2 people in the UK born after 1960 will be diagnosed with some form of cancer during their lifetime. What numbers are there for pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP)?
What is the peritoneal regression grading score?
Doctors use a score called PRGS to see how much a treatment called cytoreductive surgery and HIPEC helps people with PMP and appendix cancer.
What is adenocarcinoma ex-goblet cell?
Adenocarcinoma Ex-Goblet Cell of the appendix is a type of cancer that originates from the cells that line the inside of the appendix.
References
Written by: the Pseudomyxoma Survivor editorial team