Signet cell cancer
Signet cell cancer is a rare type of cancer that mostly starts in the glandular cells. It is also called signet ring cell cancer.
Nearly 57 out of 100 (57%) of all signet cell cancers start in the 
. But it can develop in other parts of the body. This includes the:
- bowel
oesophagus (foodpipe)lung pancreas gallbladder
What are signet cells?
Our body is made up of billions of different types of cells that can only be seen under a microscope. These cells are grouped according to the job they do or the type of body they make up.
Signet cells are a type of called glandular cells. Epithelial tissue is skin tissue, covering and lining the body both inside and out.
Signet cell cancer is also called signet ring cell cancer. This is because under a microscope the cells look like signet rings.
A cancer is called a signet cell cancer if the is made up of at least 50 out of 100 (50%) signet ring cells.
Getting the right information
The treatment you have for signet cell cancer depends on where in the body the cancer starts. For example, a signet cell cancer in the stomach is treated as a stomach cancer.
Cancers are named after the body they grow in, as well as the type of cell. So this cancer would also be called a signet cell stomach cancer.
More information
We have more information on tests, treatment and support if you have been diagnosed with cancer.
Coping
Coping with a diagnosis of a rare cancer can be especially difficult. Being well informed about your cancer and its treatment can help. It can make it easier to make decisions and cope with what happens.
Talking to other people who have the same thing can also help.
Our discussion forum Cancer Chat is a place for anyone affected by cancer. You can share experiences, stories and information with other people.
You can call our nurse freephone helpline on 0808 800 4040. They are available from Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm. Or you can send them a question online.
The Rare Cancer Alliance offer support and information to people with rare cancers. It has a forum where you might be able to meet others with the same cancer as you.
