Goblet cell adenocarcinoma (GCA) is a rare type of cancer, affecting about 1 in 2 million people, that develops in the appendix. It is unusual because the tumour contains two different types of cancer cells: neuroendocrine cancer cells and gland-forming (adenocarcinoma) cells. Due to the mixed cell types of this cancer, it can behave differently from typical neuroendocrine cancers and is usually treated more like an adenocarcinoma. Because of this complexity, it is important that cases like this are discussed at multidisciplinary team (MDT) meetings.
Goblet cell adenocarcinoma often causes symptoms similar to appendicitis. Many people experience abdominal pain, and some may have swelling or a lump in the abdomen. Because of this, the cancer is sometimes discovered when someone has surgery for suspected appendicitis.
In women, the cancer may spread to the ovaries. When this happens, it can sometimes look similar to ovarian cancer, which may make diagnosis more challenging until further testing is done.
Treatment usually involves surgery and chemotherapy. Surgery often includes removing the right side of the colon along with the appendix. This procedure helps remove the tumour and nearby lymph nodes.
Chemotherapy given through a vein may also be recommended to help reduce the risk of the cancer coming back. If the cancer has spread within the abdomen, additional surgery may be needed to remove as much of the cancer as possible.
Walk, run, or ride this March4NETs!
For its third year, March4NETs will run throughout March 2026.
Get involved and support the 31,000 Australians living with neuroendocrine cancer.
