Cancer of unknown primary (CUP)

Cancer of unknown primary (CUP) means that cancer spread (secondary cancer) has been found in your body, but doctors don't know where the cancer started (the primary tumour).

Most people are diagnosed with CUP after they become unwell and go to A&E. Others start by seeing their GP. Find out what to expect when you see a GP and the tests you might have. 

There is no staging system for cancer of unknown primary (CUP). Doctors can group CUP by the type of cell the cancer started in. 

Treatment for CUP depends on a number of things, including where the cancer is and your general health. You might have a targeted cancer drug or chemotherapy. Sometimes you may have surgery or radiotherapy to help control your symptoms. 

Survival for cancer of unknown primary depends on many different things such as the type and stage of cancer. No one can tell you exactly how long you will live.

Read about the latest research into cancer of unknown primary (CUP) and see how you can take part in a clinical trial.

Advice and support is available to help you cope with cancer of unknown primary (CUP) and its treatment.

Cancer of unknown primary (CUP) includes a variety of cancers. Find out why we can't be specific about the possible causes or risk factors of CUP.