Mucinous Carcinomas of the Gastrointestinal and Gynecologic Tracts-Diagnostic Challenges in Overlapping Pathologies

Mucinous carcinomas of the gastrointestinal and gynecologic tracts constitute a biologically and morphologically heterogeneous group of epithelial malignancies defined by prominent extracellular mucin production. Accurate classification of these tumors remains challenging due to overlap in architectural and cytologic features across primary sites, particularly between appendiceal and ovarian neoplasms. Difficulties are compounded by longstanding inconsistencies and evolving nomenclature of appendiceal and peritoneal mucinous tumors. This article synthesizes current diagnostic approaches, including morphology and immunohistochemistry, to address these classification challenges and improving diagnostic precision, harmonizing nomenclature, and guiding prognostication and therapeutic decision-making.