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Updated: Mar 20, 2026
Culture and Imaging of Ex Vivo Organotypic Pseudomyxoma Peritonei Tumor Slices from Resected Human Tumor Specimens
Published on: December 9, 2022
Appendicular mucinous adenocarcinoma associated with pseudomyxoma peritonei, a rare and difficult imaging diagnosis
Romeo Ioan Chira1, Codrut Cosmin Nistor-Ciurba2, Andreea Mociran3
11st Medical Clinic, Gastroenterology Department, Emergency Clinical County Hospital, "Iuliu Haţieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania. romeochira@yahoo.com.
Abstract:
Pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP) is a rare disease, caused by primary mucinous tumors that arise most frequently from appendix, ovary, or pancreas. Usually diagnosis is made by computed tomography, but ultrasonography can be a very useful imagistic method, if this diagnosis is taken into account by the observer. We present a case of a PMP caused by an appendiceal mucinous carcinoma, in a 34-year-old male patient, with family history of malignancies, diagnosed in our department. He was thereafter surgically treated - appendiceal resection, peritoneal lavage - followed by chemotherapy. We underline the importance of ultrasonography, even though at first encounter, the diagnosis of PMP being generally difficult.
Insights
Pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP) is a rare mucinous tumor disease. Ultrasonography can aid in diagnosing PMP, even when challenging, improving patient outcomes with timely treatment.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Gastroenterology
- Radiology
Background:
- Pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP) is a rare clinical condition characterized by mucinous tumors, often originating from the appendix, ovary, or pancreas.
- Accurate diagnosis of PMP is crucial for effective management and patient prognosis.
Observation:
- Computed tomography (CT) is typically used for PMP diagnosis, but ultrasonography (US) can be a valuable complementary imaging modality.
- This case report details a 34-year-old male with a family history of malignancies who presented with PMP secondary to appendiceal mucinous carcinoma.
Findings:
- The diagnosis of PMP was challenging initially but was supported by ultrasonography.
- The patient underwent successful surgical treatment including appendiceal resection and peritoneal lavage, followed by chemotherapy.
Implications:
- This case highlights the critical role of ultrasonography in the early detection of PMP, particularly when appendiceal mucinous carcinoma is suspected.
- Increased awareness and consideration of PMP by observers can significantly improve diagnostic accuracy and patient outcomes.
- Multidisciplinary management, including surgery and chemotherapy, is essential for treating PMP effectively.
