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Culture and Imaging of Ex Vivo Organotypic Pseudomyxoma Peritonei Tumor Slices from Resected Human Tumor Specimens
Published on: December 9, 2022
Pseudomyxoma peritonei: a clinical case of this poorly understood condition
Ana Maria de Oliveira1, Catarina Graça Rodrigues1, Alexys Borges2
1Department of Gastroenterology, Prof. Doutor Fernando Fonseca Hospital, Amadora, Portugal.
Background:
Pseudomyxoma peritonei is an uncommon condition with an estimated incidence of one to two per million (worldwide) per year. It is characterized by the peritoneal deposition of mucinous tumors, most commonly of the appendix, and occasionally from the ovary, coupled by mucinous ascites.
Case Presentation:
We report the case of a 76-year-old woman who presented with increased abdominal girth and dyspnea for 2 weeks. She was diagnosed as a case of pseudomyxoma peritonei. She was submitted to right oophorectomy, omentectomy, and pseudomyxoma debulking. The histology was compatible with a mucinous tumor of colorectal/appendicular origin. Chemotherapy was not administered because of her functional status. Two years and 8 months later, she refers with postprandial fullness and has moderate ascites.
Insights
Pseudomyxoma peritonei, a rare mucinous tumor condition, can recur even after surgery. This case highlights the importance of monitoring patients for late-onset ascites and abdominal fullness.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Pseudomyxoma peritonei is a rare condition characterized by mucinous tumor deposits in the peritoneum, often originating from the appendix or ovary.
- Its incidence is estimated at one to two per million worldwide annually.
Observation:
- A 76-year-old woman presented with abdominal distension and dyspnea, diagnosed with pseudomyxoma peritonei.
- She underwent surgical debulking, oophorectomy, and omentectomy, with histology confirming a colorectal/appendicular origin.
Findings:
- The patient experienced disease recurrence 2 years and 8 months post-surgery, presenting with postprandial fullness and moderate ascites.
- Chemotherapy was not administered due to her functional status.
Implications:
- This case underscores the potential for late recurrence of pseudomyxoma peritonei.
- It emphasizes the need for long-term surveillance in patients treated for this condition, even after successful debulking.
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