[Peritoneal pseudomyxoma: an overview emphasizing pathological assessment and therapeutic strategies]
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Updated: May 2, 2026
Culture and Imaging of Ex Vivo Organotypic Pseudomyxoma Peritonei Tumor Slices from Resected Human Tumor Specimens
Published on: December 9, 2022
Peggy Dartigues1, Sylvie Isaac2, Laurent Villeneuve3
1Département d'anatomie pathologique, institut Gustave-Roussy, 94805 Villejuif, France.
Abstract:
Pseudomyxoma peritonei is a clinical entity characterized by a gelatinous ascite associated with mucinous tumor deposits spreading on peritoneal surface and potentially invading abdominal organs. It is considered as a tumor process linked, in most of cases, to a mucinous appendiceal neoplasm. Pseudomyxoma peritonei may benefit from a therapeutic strategy combining cytoreductive surgery and intra-peritoneal chemotherapy, which has led to a major prognosis improvement. Different classifications are available and the last one corresponds to the WHO 2010 version, which individualizes pseudomyxoma peritonei in two classes: low grade and high grade mucinous carcinoma. The very low frequency of this entity and its specific therapeutic strategy need specific health care centres, as well as physicians and pathologists collaborating through dedicated networks. The aim of this article is to summarize the pathology, causes, mechanisms and therapeutic approaches of pseudomyxoma peritonei, as well as their interfaces with dedicated networks.
Insights
Pseudomyxoma peritonei, a rare condition often linked to appendiceal neoplasms, involves gelatinous ascites and mucinous tumors. Treatment combining surgery and chemotherapy significantly improves patient prognosis.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology and Oncology
- Pathology
- Surgical Oncology
Context:
- Pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP) is a rare clinical entity characterized by gelatinous ascites and peritoneal mucinous tumor deposits.
- It is most commonly associated with mucinous appendiceal neoplasms.
- PMP presents unique diagnostic and therapeutic challenges due to its low incidence.
Purpose:
- To provide a comprehensive overview of pseudomyxoma peritonei.
- To summarize its pathology, etiology, and pathomechanisms.
- To discuss current therapeutic strategies and the role of specialized networks.
Summary:
- PMP involves mucinous tumor spread within the peritoneum, often originating from the appendix.
- The WHO 2010 classification distinguishes between low-grade and high-grade mucinous carcinoma.
- Multimodal treatment including cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) has improved outcomes.
Impact:
- Highlights the importance of specialized centers and multidisciplinary collaboration for optimal PMP management.
- Emphasizes the improved prognosis with current therapeutic approaches.
- Aims to guide clinicians and pathologists in diagnosing and treating this rare malignancy.
