What is omental caking?

Omental caking refers to the thickening and hardening of the omentum, a fold of peritoneal tissue that hangs down from the stomach. The omentum plays a role in immune response and helps to protect internal organs from infection and injury.

Omental caking can be a symptom of advanced abdominal cancers, such as ovarian cancer, colon cancer, or stomach cancer. The thickening and hardening of the omentum can occur due to the presence of cancer cells infiltrating the tissue.

Symptoms of omental caking may include abdominal pain, bloating, weight loss, and changes in bowel habits. Diagnosis is usually made using imaging tests such as CT scans or MRIs, as well as biopsy of the affected tissue.

Treatment for omental caking typically involves addressing the underlying cancer with chemotherapy, radiation therapy, surgery, or a combination of these treatments. Palliative care may also be used to help manage symptoms and improve quality of life for patients with advanced cancer.