Peritoneal Cancer (Peritoneal Surface Malignancies)

Imaging tests

Ultrasound, MRI or CT scans may be used to produce detailed pictures that may indicate the presence of cancer. 

Blood tests

A blood test that measures levels of a chemical called CA-125, Ca19-9, CEA in the blood may indicate 

the presence of peritoneal based malignancies. However, these markers are not specific and high levels may be present for other reasons. If your health screen shows high levels of these markers, please head to your nearest clinic for a referral to a tertiary centre for further workup. 

Lower GI series or barium enema

During this procedure, the colon and rectum are filled with a white liquid called barium, that helps x-rays show details in the large intestines, making it possible to spot tumours or other abnormalities. 

Upper GI series

In this procedure, barium is swallowed so that the x-rays can show details of the oesophagus, stomach and duodenum (first part of the small intestine). 

Endoscopy

A scope is used to provide direct visualisation of the lining of both the stomach and large intestine. This procedure is usually done under sedation and is generally safe. Any suspicious lesions can be biopsied for histological diagnosis. 

Laparoscopy

A thin tube is passed through a small incision in the abdomen so that organs inside the abdomen can be examined. If necessary, a biopsy (a small sample of tissue) may be taken for examination and testing in the laboratory to confirm a cancer diagnosis. 

Paracentesis

In cases where a biopsy is not possible or if it is suspected that the fluid build-up (called ascites) that is characteristic of peritoneal based malignancies, is due to other causes, a doctor may remove fluid from the abdomen so that it can be examined under microscope to indicate which type of cancer is present.