The term "cancer of unknown primary" can feel a little confusing at first. Most cancers that doctors identify are found by their source of origin. But CUP is quite different. Doctors identify it by seeing how much it has spread to other parts of your body without locating its source of origin. While it may sound a little unusual, this doesn’t mean that your testing or treatment has stopped.
Why can’t doctors find primary cancers?
Sometimes, your cancer tumor might be so small that it cannot be detected even with advanced imaging. In some cases, your body’s immune system may destroy the primary tumor, while the cancer keeps spreading in other organs. Your tumor may also be hidden in places that can be difficult for doctors to examine. While the source of tumors may not always be identified, certain tests and molecular profiling can give doctors enough information about the tumor.
How is CUP diagnosed?
Doctors may need to perform a series of different tests and scans to confirm the presence of cancer in your body and gather some information about its origin. They may start by examining your current health condition and use techniques like MRI and CT scans to see what is happening inside your body. These imaging tests can help doctors to see hidden tumors. If they see any suspicious activity inside your body, a biopsy can be performed to confirm the presence of cancer. Doctors may also go for molecular profiling to identify the source of origin. These tests can help them plan the best treatment according to your condition, even though the source is unknown.
How is CUP treated?
The treatment might depend on how much the cancer has spread in your body and your overall health condition. But doctors usually go for broad-spectrum chemotherapy to destroy the spread of the cancer. If your tests locate cancer in a specific area, like the neck or lymph nodes, then doctors may go with surgery followed by radiation therapy. In some cases, immunotherapy can be an option as well if your tests identify some genetic changes.
Treating the unknown
Finding out that the source of cancer is unknown can feel a little concerning, but this doesn’t mean that there is no cure. With advanced tools and techniques, doctors can create a personalized plan for you, even if the cancer is unknown. By following your doctor's advice and asking the right questions, you can help yourself move ahead with confidence.