[Appendiceal tumors. Clinicopathologic review of 5,307 appendectomies]

Appendix tumors are unusual, accounting for 0.4% of all gastrointestinal- tract malignancies. Although rare, the spectrum of malignant disease is complex and has led to confusion with regard to accurate description of the natural history of these tumors. Consequently, many errors in diagnosis and treatment have occurred.

Our aim was to analyze incidence and clinic-pathologic behavior of appendiceal tumors.

Our study type was retrospective, observational, longitudinal, and descriptive, and was conducted at a secondary-care-level hospital. From a single care center, a histopathologic database of 5,307 appendectomies, all appendiceal tumors, was identified and case notes were reviewed. Analysis of clinical presentation, histopathology, operation, and outcome is presented.

During a 10-year period (5,307 appendectomies), 31 patients (0.58%) with appendiceal tumors were identified: 11 had carcinoid tumors, 18 benign, and two patients had malignant tumors. Acute appendicitis was the most common presentation (79.1%), and 20.3% were normal appendices. Patients with appendiceal tumor included 23 females and eight males with mean age of 48 years. Ninety seven percent of patients had preoperative diagnosis of acute appendicitis.

Appendiceal tumors are uncommon and most commonly present as acute appendicitis. Macroscopic suspicion during surgery is the most important point to make the best decision.