Everyone knows how deadly of a disease that cancer can be. But many aren’t aware of every form this dangerous illness can take. Here is a look at a few rare, yet deadly forms of cancer that you should be aware of.

Tonsil Cancer 

Tonsil cancer is cancer that forms in a patient’s tonsils — the lumps of tissue in the back of your throat that many have removed at some point in their lives. Although it’s rare, it is possible for cancer to form in a person’s tonsils and lead to difficulty swallowing and eventually death. Doctors aren’t entirely certain what causes tonsil cancer, it has been linked to the use of tobacco, alcohol, and even the sexually transmitted disease human papillomavirus (HPV). If detected early enough, tonsil cancer can be eliminated with surgery or treated with chemotherapy — but if not treated quickly enough, it can spread to the throat and cause complications.

Wilm’s Tumor

Wilm’s Tumor is a form of kidney cancer primarily found in children. The vast majority of cases are found in children under 10, with 2/3 being found in kids younger than five. A patient with Wilm’s Tumor will often suffer a loss of appetite, weight loss, nausea, vomiting, and lethargy, among other symptoms. With proper treatment, the survival rate of Wilm’s tumor is pretty high, however, the chances of the tumor coming back are also high and are known to cause health complications later in life, such as decreased kidney function or additional cancers.

Thyroid Cancer

Thyroid cancer is cancer that forms in the thyroid, the butterfly-shaped gland in the base of your neck that is responsible for producing hormones that are necessary to body functioning. There are multiple different forms of thyroid cancer and the disease tends to be more common in women than men. It can often exist without any symptoms, but will eventually cause your glands to swell, and you will likely experience difficulty swallowing or neck pain. Thyroid cancer can be treated if diagnosed early but can spread to your bones and other organs if left untreated.

Mesothelioma 

Mesothelioma is a form of cancer caused by exposure to asbestos fibers. Asbestos was a common material used in construction and household products until the late 20th century when it was discovered to be harmful to your lungs. Mesothelioma can occur in your chest and abdomen. However, the most common form of the disease, pleural mesothelioma, is found in the lungs. Today the disease is rare, as asbestos production has slowed considerably in the last 50 years. However, it is still found in many old buildings and products and can be very deadly — with the survival rate being around 12-18 months after diagnosis. Although there is no treatment for the damage asbestos does to your lungs, if you were exposed to the deadly material you may be entitled to compensation. Companies that formerly produced asbestos have set up trust funds for the families impacted by their negligence. Although far from a perfect solution, a successful lawsuit and a settlement from one of these funds can be a good way for patients and families to seek closure after a mesothelioma diagnosis.