Rare Cancers
The Rare Tumor Clinic at UC San Diego Health treats rare cancers, which may be easily misdiagnosed and ineffectively treated by non-specialists.
We work closely with our Center for Personalized Cancer Therapy to provide you with the best in precision medicine.
Nationally Ranked Cancer Care
UC San Diego Health is repeatedly ranked among the top 50 in the nation for cancer care by U.S. News & World Report. We are also the only National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center in San Diego County. This is the highest possible rating for a U.S. cancer center, and it means you’ll receive the best possible care and support. Studies show patient outcomes are better at NCI-designated cancer centers.
Rare Cancers
We treat all types of rare cancers, including:
- Appendix cancer
- Cancer of unknown primary (CUP)
- Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST)
- Kaposi sarcoma
- Mesothelioma
- Neuroendocrine tumors (NETs)
- Peritoneal cancer
- Salivary gland cancer
- Testicular cancer
Cancer of Unknown Primary (CUP)
Cancer of Unknown Primary, also known as CUP, is a rare disease, in which cancer cells are found in the body but it's unclear where they originated.
We offer diagnosis and treatment for CUP cases. Led by Shumei Kato, MD, your care is focused on a precision-medicine approach, with clinical trials matching you to a targeted treatment or immune therapy.
You may receive multiple types of in-depth diagnostic tests to better understand the origins of your cancer and its biology, including comprehensive genomic and immune profiling, as well as expert pathology review. Your case will also be reviewed by our Molecular Tumor Board.
Personalized Cancer Care
Treatments Tailored to Your Unique Tumor Type
Every person's cancer tumor is unique — this is why we personalize your care plan using molecular profiling of your tumor and genetic testing. When possible, you will receive a genomically targeted treatment and/or immunotherapy. This may be instead of or along with traditional treatments such as surgery or radiation therapy. In addition, an interdisciplinary team of experts meets regularly to review and discuss your care plan.
Precision Medicine Doctors A team approach to your care
At UC San Diego Health, your cancer care is led by a multidisciplinary team of doctors who specialize in your type of cancer. Highly specialized multidisciplinary care is a hallmark of top-tier academic medical centers such as UC San Diego Health. For patients like you, it means you receive the highest level of care. Find a precision medicine specialist.
Clinical Trials
Advancing Cancer Care and Prevention
UC San Diego Health physicians are actively researching ways to improve cancer care. By joining a clinical trial, you may receive a new cancer treatment before it is available to the public. If your cancer has not responded to standard therapies, talk to your doctor about whether a clinical trial could be right for you.
Patient & Family Support Services
At UC San Diego Health, your care goes beyond treating disease. It also includes supporting you and your loved ones emotionally throughout your cancer journey. Most of our support services are free.
Location
Cancer Care When You Need It
The same-day cancer care clinic at UC San Diego Health provides fast, expert treatment for urgent cancer-related symptoms, improving patient care and quality of life.
Beating B-Cell Lymphoma
Katie Kinninger, UC San Diego retiree and cancer survivor, overcame B-cell lymphoma with CAR T-cell therapy, a type of immunotherapy. Now, she surfs, bikes and embraces life fully.
A Strike Against Pancreatic Cancer
Former MLB pitcher Danny Boitano faced his toughest opponent — pancreatic cancer. With resilience, top care at UC San Diego Health and faith, he is beating the odds.