The appendix is a narrow tube shaped like a worm that is connected to the large intestine. Usually the appendix is 3 to 4 inches long. The function of the appendix in the human body is still unclear. It was previously thought to be an evolutionary leftover and now it is thought to help the immune system. In some cases, cancer may develop in the appendix. Since the appendix is a part of the gastrointestinal tract, appendix cancer is categorised as a type of colorectal cancer (or bowel cancer).

Appendix cancer is also called appendiceal carcinoma and is generally a very rare condition. The symptoms of appendix cancer may include a ruptured appendix, discomfort and bloating in the abdomen. However, in many cases there are no symptoms until the cancer has progressed. Appendix cancer develops when the cells in the appendix start multiplying abnormally and form a tumour. Types of appendix tumours include carcinoid tumour (caused by abnormal growth of cells that produce hormones; usually does not display any symptoms until it has spread to other internal organs), mucinous cystadenocarcinoma (caused by mucin, a jelly-like substance filling the abdominal cavity), colonic-type adenocarcinoma, signet-ring cell adenocarcinoma and paraganglioma.

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