Some of the most common forms of cancer are those that we think of first, including lung cancer, breast cancer, prostate cancer, blood cancer, and colon cancer. These conditions are widely known, and early detection can be aided by routine screening.
However, there are numerous other forms of cancer, though, that are less well-known but just as crucial to know. Increased knowledge of these lesser-known tumors may promote prompt treatment and early discovery, thereby saving lives. Talk to a highly trusted cancer doctor in Siliguri or near you for effective care and recovery.
1. Cholangiocarcinoma (Bile Duct Cancer)
The bile ducts, which transport bile from the liver to the gallbladder and small intestine, are impacted by cholangiocarcinoma. This is aggressive and frequently has a late diagnosis.
Insights:
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Liver illness, persistent inflammation of the bile ducts, and certain infections are risk factors.
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Abdominal pain, weight loss, itching, and jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes) are possible symptoms.
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It is usually confused with other liver or digestive issues due to the ambiguity of the early symptoms.
For those who are at risk, more awareness may encourage earlier testing.
2. Sarcoma
Sarcoma is an uncommon type of malignancy/ cancer that begins in the connective tissues. This includes cartilage, fat, muscle, tendons, blood vessels, nerves, and bones. Now, sarcomas can develop practically anywhere in the body, in contrast to more prevalent malignancies that start in organs.
Insights:
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Sarcomas are often misidentified as harmless lumps or wounds.
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A developing lump, bone pain, or swelling are some of the symptoms.
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Sarcoma has around 70 recognized subgroups.
Because specialized therapy and early diagnosis lead to better results, awareness is essential.
3. Mesothelioma
The lining of the testicles, heart, abdomen, or lungs can all develop mesothelioma. But, mostly, it begins in the lungs’ lining. It is closely associated with asbestos exposure.
Insights:
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Symptoms may not show up for decades after asbestos exposure.
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Chest pain, dyspnea, abdominal edema, and inexplicable weight loss are typical symptoms.
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Treatment for mesothelioma is challenging due to its aggressive nature.
It's vital to keep an eye on your health following asbestos exposure. You may seek advice from the best oncologist in Siliguri on diagnosis.
4. Nasopharyngeal Cancer
Another rare type of malignancy that begins in the area behind the nose and right above the back of the throat. This is called the nasopharynx, where this cancer first appears. Although rare globally, it is more widespread in some parts of Asia and Africa.
Insights:
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Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection, family history, and specific dietary practices are risk factors.
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Nasal congestion, headaches, sore throat, nosebleeds, hearing loss, and enlarged neck lymph nodes are among possible symptoms.
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Early symptoms might be difficult to diagnose since they frequently mimic common sinus or ear issues.
People with persistent ENT symptoms are encouraged to get evaluated further by raising awareness.
5. Uveal Melanoma
Also called eye melanoma, it begins in cells that produce melanin in the eye, which can affect the iris, choroid layer, ciliary body, etc. Small eye melanoma usually doesn’t cause vision-related issues.
Inights:
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Genetic predisposition, fair skin, and light eye color are risk factors.
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Though it can occasionally be asymptomatic, symptoms include flashes of light, dark spots on the iris, and blurred vision.
Increasing awareness highlights the value of routine eye exams, as they can protect vision early on.
6. Thymoma or Thymic Carcinoma
The thymus, a little organ located in the chest behind the sternum, is where many tumors grow. Particularly in childhood, the thymus contributes to the immune system.
Insights:
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Slow-growing thymomas are frequently associated with autoimmune conditions like myasthenia gravis.
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Muscle weakness, shortness of breath, chest pain, and a persistent cough are some of the symptoms.
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This is a more aggressive and sometimes more difficult to treat.
Raising awareness can help with speedier referrals to cancer doctors because thymus tumors are uncommon.
7. Multiple Myeloma
The malignancy known as multiple myeloma affects bone marrow's plasma cells. These are a subset of white blood cells that influence the body's antibody production.
Insights:
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Risk factors include family history, specific genetic disorders, and age (more prevalent in older persons).
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Anemia, kidney issues, exhaustion, recurrent infections, and bone discomfort are some of the symptoms.
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Early discovery aids in improved symptom management, and while it is treated, it cannot be cured.
By raising awareness of multiple myeloma, we can prevent people from ignoring its warning symptoms in some cases.
8. Gallbladder Cancer
The tiny organ that holds bile, the gallbladder, is where gallbladder cancer starts. Due to the fact that symptoms typically only manifest after the disease has progressed, gallbladder cancer is often diagnosed at a late stage.
Insights:
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Gallstones, persistent inflammation of the gallbladder, and family history are risk factors.
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Among the symptoms are bloating, nausea, jaundice, and stomach pain, particularly in the upper right side.
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The prognosis for gallbladder cancer is better when diagnosed early, but this is rarely the case.
When you know the symptoms, this may help you seek early clinical diagnosis.
9. Vulvar Cancer
In females, vulvar carcinoma affects the external genitalia. Although it is rare, if not identified early, it can have serious consequences. Surgery is often the first step in the treatment of vulvar cancer to remove the disease and a small portion of the surrounding healthy tissue.
Indights:
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Risk factors include smoking, having a history of precancerous skin problems, and having an HPV infection.
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Itchy, painful, strange lumps, bleeding, or changes in vulvar skin color are some of the symptoms.
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Although it is more prevalent in elderly women, it can also happen to younger ones.
With early diagnosis, we can enhance the effectiveness of vulvular cancer treatment.
Why It is Important to Understand the Less Common Cancers
Due to symptoms that are missed or resemble those of other common illnesses, many of these cancers or cancerous tumors are diagnosed late. Knowing about these allows you to:
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Identify any unexpected or enduring symptoms.
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Speak with medical professionals about risk factors.
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Undergo prompt examinations or screenings.
Besides increasing survival rates, early detection improves quality of life by offering less complicated treatment options.
Lesser-known cancers should also be made aware of. Results might be affected by knowing risk factors and detecting symptoms early. It's critical to get medical help right away if there’s any abnormal growth, chronic discomfort, or unexplained health changes. Consult your cancer doctor in Siliguri, Dr. Saptarshi Ghosh, or near you for a precise diagnosis and personalized medical care.
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