Mucocele of the appendix: what to expect

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Gastroenterology
• Oncology

Background:

• Appendiceal mucoceles are uncommon cystic lesions of the appendix.
• They present with variable clinical and imaging findings, sometimes mimicking adnexal masses.
• Causes can be neoplastic or non-neoplastic.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the typical imaging features of appendiceal mucoceles.
• To emphasize the importance of recognizing these features for differential diagnosis.
• To underscore the critical role of prompt imaging in identifying potential complications like pseudomyxoma peritonei.

Main Methods:

• Review of imaging characteristics of appendiceal mucoceles.
• Discussion of differential diagnoses for right lower quadrant lesions.
• Emphasis on anatomical landmarks and imaging features.

Main Results:

• The typical imaging appearance is a cystic, tubular structure contiguous with the cecum.
• Variable presentations can mimic other pathologies, including adnexal masses.
• Rupture of neoplastic mucoceles can lead to pseudomyxoma peritonei with significant prognostic implications.

Conclusions:

• Familiarity with appendiceal mucocele imaging is essential for radiologists.
• Accurate diagnosis and prompt imaging are crucial for patient management.
• Distinguishing neoplastic from non-neoplastic causes impacts prognosis, especially regarding pseudomyxoma peritonei risk.