Rare cancers are, in many ways, cancer’s underdogs. They are less prevalent than breast or lung cancer, but their impact is powerful. The ACS defines a rare cancer as “having fewer than six cases per 100,000 people per year.” In the research conducted by Eline de Heus et al., they reported that “rare cancers accounted for 18% of all cancer diagnoses (mean incidence), and 15% of the total ten-year cancer prevalence during 2010–2019.”
You may be wondering why bother with them if they are so rare. Despite their modest prevalence, they affect a large number of people due to the variety of kinds. Just because they are uncommon does not make them any less serious. In fact, because they’re less well-known, they’re generally diagnosed later, making treatment more difficult. Furthermore, because they are rarely in the spotlight, research and funding for certain tumors may lag behind. In this article, we will look at some of the rare cancers.
Examples of Rare Cancers
Merkel Cell Carcinoma
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is caused by Merkel cells found in the epidermis, or outer layer of the skin. These cells detect touch sensations and are normally dispersed throughout the skin.
One significant problem is exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sunlight or tanning beds, which can damage Merkel cell DNA and cause abnormal development. Furthermore, when the immune system is impaired, it may fail to detect and kill abnormal cells, allowing them to grow unchecked.
Merkel cells reproduce uncontrollably, forming a lump or tumor beneath the skin’s surface that eventually develops into Merkel cell cancer. This cancer has the potential to spread to neighboring lymph nodes and other organs, rendering them cancerous.
Cholangiocarcinoma
Cholangiocarcinoma, also known as bile duct cancer, starts in the bile ducts, which are small tubes that transport bile (a digestive fluid produced by the liver) to the small intestine. Symptoms of cancer include jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), stomach pain, and unexplained weight loss. Cholangiocarcinoma can be caused by a variety of reasons, including:
Structural defects or abnormalities present at birth in the bile ducts can impede the flow of bile, resulting in bile accumulation and increased pressure inside them.
Chronic inflammation of the bile duct caused by primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) or chronic infection with liver flukes can harm the duct lining, increasing the risk of DNA mutation and cancer cell growth.
Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is primarily caused by exposure to asbestos fibers. When asbestos fibers are breathed in or swallowed, they can become trapped in the lungs, abdomen, or heart, causing changes in cells that contribute to mesothelioma development.
Once an asbestos fiber becomes stuck in the body, it can induce chronic inflammation and scarring, potentially leading to the growth of cancerous cells.
Over time, these cancerous cells might grow and form tumors in the affected tissues. Common mesothelioma symptoms include chest pain, shortness of breath, and unexplained weight loss.
Rare cancers do not end here; they are diverse and have a unique impact on a person’s health. Other rare cancers include desmoid tumors, sarcomas, neuroendocrine tumors (NETs), and gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs).
Conclusion
When it comes to cancer treatment, awareness and early detection are important, regardless of how frequent or rare the type. Being aware and detecting any signs or symptoms early can mean the difference between a manageable problem and a more difficult battle. So, be cautious, educate yourself and others, and emphasize routine tests and check-ups. It’s all about remaining one step ahead and giving yourself the best opportunity of defeating this powerful opponent.
