[Mucin-secreting tumor of the appendix with large gelatinous effusion]

The authors report a case of a mucinous tumour of the appendix with a large muco-gelatinous effusion detected as a result of massive abdominal compression. The mucinous mass occupied the entire abdominal cavity and was compressing the abdominal vascular trunks. Increases in CEA, Ca 19.9 and Ca 50 were recorded. The abdominal CT scan was of fundamental importance for diagnosing the condition. Surgery was performed consisting in removal of the mucinous abdominal mass, the appendix and part of the caecum. The postoperative course was favourable with rapid restoration of abdominal organic functions and normalisation of CEA. The rarity of these tumours is stressed.