Cancer of unknown primary
In most cases, it is easy to work out where the cancer started. A cancer of unknown primary is when cancer has spread from an unknown place in the body. It may also be called metastasis of unknown origin, metastatic malignancy of unknown primary, or occult primary cancer.
Visit the Cancer Council website for more information about the causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of cancer of an unknown primary.
Specialist treatment and support for young people diagnosed with cancer
Cancer of unknown primary is one of the most common cancers diagnosed in adolescents and young adults. Specialist treatment and support for young people with cancer aged 15-25 is provided by the Youth Cancer Services (YCS) based in major hospitals throughout Australia. Canteen also offers events and other support for young people with cancer.
Neuroblastoma
A neuroblastoma is a rare type of cancer that develops in young nerve cells (called neuroblasts). It is the most common type of solid tumour in young children. Neuroblastoma is normally found in the adrenal glands of the kidney, but can develop in the nerve tissues of the neck, chest, abdomen or pelvis. Neuroblastoma is most common in children aged under five.
Visit Cancer Council for more information about the causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of cancer of neuroblastoma.
Retinoblastoma
Retinoblastoma is a rare type of eye tumour in children. It affects the retina (the layer at the back of the eye that detects and senses light.) It is most common in children aged under three.
Visit the Australian Government Children's cancer website for more information about the causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of cancer of retinoblastoma.
Have you or a loved one been diagnosed with cancer? Get support here:
Support for young cancer patients
Canteen provides a range of specialist support services for young people with cancer including the Robots Service, Education and Career Service (ECS) and more.
Counselling and individual support
Canteen's counsellors and psychologists are specially trained to understand the challenges that cancer brings. Our counselling services are confidential and completely free.
Events & programs
Connect with other young people who know what you're going through and get some much-needed space away from the daily pressures of living with cancer.
Online support
Our online communities like Canteen Connect and Parenting through Cancer give you the chance to connect with others who get it 24/7.
When cancer’s in your life, Canteen is in your corner.
Cancer affects everyone differently. That’s why Canteen provides a wide range of support services to help you overcome the specific challenges you’re dealing with.
Whether you’re dealing with your parent’s cancer, a brother or sister’s cancer or your own diagnosis, we have got your back. We also have newer services specifically for parents too.
