Mucinous neoplasia of the cecal appendix

Abstract

Introduction: Mucinous neoplasms of the cecal appendix are infrequent. These lesions can be an incidental finding in emergency appendectomies, since their preoperative diagnosis is difficult due to the lack of specificity of their symptoms. Objective: To present a case of low-grade mucinous neoplasia of the cecal appendix. Case Report: A 73-year-old male patient presented with acute abdominal pain, vital signs and laboratory tests within normal limits, and ultrasonography showing a cecal appendix measuring 76 x 67 x 107 mm. Radical appendectomy was performed, which included resection of the mesoappendix from the appendicular artery, the antimesenteric border of the ligament of Tréves and the free appendicular base, which included the cecum (cecectomy). In the histopathological examination it was observed that the cecal appendix belonged to 10 x 8 x 5 cm with tumor lesion in the base and part of the body; the cut showed outflow of viscous, mucoid, yellowish material, cystic areas of less than 1 cm, congestive vessels, presence of mucous glands with cells showing scarce atypia and an expansive invasion affecting the muscular and mucosal layer with focal loss and slight fibrosis of the submucosa. Low grade cecal appendiceal mucinous neoplasia of the appendix was diagnosed, with resolution and satisfactory evolution of the patient. Conclusions: Mucinous neoplasms of the cecal appendix may be an incidental finding. They have non-specific symptoms, are largely treated by resection and histopathological study is necessary for their diagnosis.

Keywords

• apéndice
• neoplasia
• mucina.