Adenocarcinoma is a form of cancer that grows in cells that line your internal organs. While it is most commonly found in the lungs, adenocarcinoma can also strike the colon, breasts, cervix, prostate and other glandular organs. Beyond being labeled adenocarcinoma, the cancer is also named after the organ it affects. Adenocarcinoma is capable of metastasizing and also destroys the healthy tissue surrounding it.
Symptoms
Your symptoms from adenocarcinoma depend on which organ it affects. It is difficult to diagnose early stages of adenocarcinoma because there are few symptoms. Usually by the time you see a doctor, an adenocarcinoma is quite large. Symptoms occur when the tumor begins to destroy the healthy tissue around it. These symptoms hinge on the organ affected, so if it's your lungs you will have difficulty breathing.
Risks and Complications
Certain factors that will increase your risk for contracting adenocarcinoma include drinking too much alcohol, not eating enough vegetables, tobacco use and weight issues. Smoking affects the lungs, and a high fat diet can lead to adenocarcinoma of the digestive organs. If your cancer progresses without treatment, your organs may not function properly. You will also experience considerable pain from your cancer and often experience internal bleeding.
Treatment
Your treatment will depend on the size of your tumor, its location and whether it has spread. Surgery is performed on small tumors and early stages of cancer. The tumor and some surrounding tissue will be removed. Sometimes chemotherapy or radiation is used following the procedure to ensure that the cancer does not return. If your cancer is more serious, your doctor will use chemo or radiation to shrink the tumor and improve the quality of your life. The biggest goal for later stage adenocarcinoma is to prevent the cancer from progressing.
Tags: your cancer, early stages, healthy tissue, organ affects
