Hernia and Cancer: The Points Where the Roads Intersect

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Gastroenterology
• Surgical Research

Background:

• Abdominal wall hernias and various cancer types are distinct clinical entities.
• Potential intersections, interactions, and mutual effects between hernia and cancer warrant investigation.
• Previous research has explored indirect connections and possible involvements.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and synthesize current knowledge on the relationship between abdominal wall hernias and cancer.
• To identify common points, intersections, and potential interactions between these two conditions.
• To evaluate the evidence for a causal link or shared etiology.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature search of the PubMed database and relevant journals.
• Screening of 1,422 articles, with 264 included in the full-text review.
• Searches conducted in July 2018 and updated in December 2018.

Main Results:

• No definitive evidence supports a common etiology for abdominal wall hernias and cancer.
• Shared findings in genes, integrins, and biomarkers lack meaningful identified relationships.
• Conflicting evidence suggests inguinal hernia may be a risk factor for testicular cancer; chemotherapy/radiotherapy can cause herniation; bevacizumab may complicate repairs.

Conclusions:

• The relationship between abdominal wall hernias and cancer is generally weak.
• Hernia repair using mesh does not cause cancer; a single case report links cancer to long-term mesh infection.
• Identified intersection points between hernias and cancer merit future research.