Any cancer, which affects the peritoneum, is called peritoneal carcinomatosis or peritoneal surface malignancy. The space between the organs in the abdomen is called peritoneal cavity and is lined by the peritoneum, a thin protective membrane.

Primary peritoneal cancer starts and develops in the peritoneum and usually only affects women and very rarely, men.

Secondary cancer of the peritoneum is usually when the spread of cancer cells occurs from pre-existing cancer. The most common cancers that cause peritoneal cancers are:>Secondary cancer of the peritoneum is usually when the spread of cancer cells occurs from pre-existing cancer. The most common cancers that cause peritoneal cancers are:

• Stomach cancer
• Ovarian cancer
• Colorectal cancer
• Peritoneal mesothelioma
• Primary peritoneal cancer
• Pancreatic/Appendiceal cancer

• Abdominal discomfort or pain from gas, indigestion, pressure, swelling, bloating, or cramps
• Feeling of fullness, even after a light meal
• Nausea or diarrhea
• Frequent urination
• Constipation
• Abnormal vaginal bleeding
• Rectal bleeding
• Shortness of breath