Management of goblet cell carcinoid

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Surgical Oncology
• Pathology

Background:

• Goblet cell carcinoid is a rare appendiceal neoplasm with intermediate malignant potential.
• These tumors represent a significant minority of neoplasms affecting the appendix.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the presentation, treatment, and outcomes of 16 cases of goblet cell carcinoid.
• To evaluate the necessity of right hemicolectomy for appendiceal goblet cell carcinoid presenting as appendicitis.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of 16 cases diagnosed between 1995 and 2005 at a single institution.
• Patients were categorized into two groups: incidental findings during surgery and presentation with mass or metastatic disease.

Main Results:

• Presenting diagnoses varied, including appendicitis, abdominal/liver mass, uterine/ovarian mass, and Crohn's disease exacerbation.
• Mortality rate was 19% over a mean follow-up of 12 months.
• Appendectomy was the initial procedure for most incidental findings; advanced presentations included Krukenberg lesions and abdominal masses.

Conclusions:

• Goblet cell carcinoid is a rare, predominantly appendiceal malignant tumor.
• Right hemicolectomy is not routinely supported for appendiceal goblet cell carcinoid presenting as appendicitis.
• Treatment decisions for goblet cell carcinoid require individual patient customization.