Symptoms

Since CUP can appear anywhere in the body, the initial symptoms can vary. Usually, symptoms are related to the area where the cancer is found, most commonly the liver, lungs, bones, and lymph nodes. People with CUP may experience the following symptoms. Sometimes, people with CUP do not show any of these symptoms. Or, these symptoms may be caused by a medical condition that is not cancer. If you are concerned about a symptom on this list, please talk with your doctor.

• Persistent pain in a specific area of the body
  
  
• Loss of appetite or unexplained weight loss
  
  
• Persistent cough or hoarseness
  
  
• Thickening or lump in any part of the body
  
  
• Changes in bowel or bladder habits
  
  
• Unusual bleeding or discharge
  
  
• Persistent fever or night sweats

Even when the primary site cannot be identified, signs and symptoms can often help the doctor plan effective treatment. Careful evaluation and testing of the tumor tissue removed during the biopsy (see Diagnosis) can sometimes provide clues about where the tumor began. Also, identifying where the cancer has spread can help identify which treatments are most appropriate.