The cecum is the initial segment of the large intestine, located in the lower right abdomen, connecting to the small intestine via the ileocecal valve. After most nutrients are absorbed in the small intestine, food residue enters the cecum and then proceeds through the ascending colon. The primary function of the colon is to absorb water and electrolytes, forming stool.

The colon is divided into 5 parts: the cecum, ascending colon, transverse colon, descending colon, and sigmoid colon. The cecum is the initial part of the colon, situated in the lower right abdominal region near the appendix. This is the first area where digestive fluid from the small intestine arrives.

Most symptoms of cecal cancer are not noticeable until the disease has reached an advanced stage. Potential symptoms include:

Anemia: Bleeding from this region of the colon is often minimal and goes undetected until a doctor diagnoses the patient with iron-deficiency anemia, typically through complete blood count tests. Accompanying symptoms of anemia may include: fatigue, shortness of breath, weakness, and a rapid heart rate.

Dark stools: Bleeding in the cecum and right colon can result in dark stools or the presence of occult blood. This symptom is often overlooked because it is not always obvious.

Bloating and abdominal distension: Bloating and abdominal distension can occur but are less common. These two symptoms are also associated with many other common digestive conditions, making them easy to disregard.

Abdominal pain: Cecal cancer often causes a dull ache in the lower right abdomen, sometimes mistaken for appendicitis. The pain can be vague, diffuse, and difficult to pinpoint precisely.

Nausea and vomiting: Large tumors in the right colon can cause food to reflux into the small intestine and stomach, leading to vomiting. The vomitus is often yellow (bile-colored).

Weight loss: Unintended weight loss is common in patients with late-stage cecal cancer. Unintended weight loss is defined as a 5% reduction in body weight without dieting or increased physical activity.

Colonoscopy is an important method for detecting polyps and tumors suspected of being cancerous. An abdominal computed tomography (CT) scan is indicated to assess the extent of spread and metastasis.

By Anh Chi (According to Very Well Health)