The etiology, clinical presentation, and management of pseudomyxoma peritonei

HIPEC + EPIC versus HIPEC-alone: differences in major complications following cytoreduction surgery for peritoneal malignancy

INTRODUCTION

Peritoneal metastases (PM) can be treated with cytoreduction surgery (CRS) with intraoperative heated intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) plus or minus early postoperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy (EPIC). HIPEC + EPIC may be associated with more complications than HIPEC alone.

METHODS

A prospective database of consecutive patients undergoing CRS + HIPEC ± EPIC at the University of Calgary between February 2000 and May 2011 was reviewed. Patient, tumor, and perioperative variables included peritoneal cancer index (PCI), completeness of cytoreduction (CCR) score, HIPEC ± EPIC type, and grade III/IV complications.

RESULTS

198 patients had a CCR score of 0/1 and received: (1) HIPEC mitomycin C + EPIC 5-fluorouracil for 5 days (n = 85; February 2000-January 2008); or (2) HIPEC oxaliplatin with IV 5-fluorouracil + no EPIC (n = 113; February 2008-May 2011). Clinicodemographics were similar except PCI was higher in the HIPEC-alone group (mean PCI 22 vs. 17; P = 0.02). The rate of grade III/IV complications was higher in the HIPEC + EPIC group (44.7% vs. 31.0%; P = 0.05). On multivariate logistic regression only HIPEC + EPIC and PCI > 26 were associated with an increased rate of complications.

CONCLUSION

In patients with PM, the use of EPIC, in combination with CRS and HIPEC, is associated with an increased rate of complications. Surgeons should consider using HIPEC only (without EPIC).

Potential mucolytic agents for mucinous ascites from pseudomyxoma peritonei

Pseudomyxoma peritonei is a disease characterised by the accumulation of mucinous ascites. Thus far, cytoreductive surgery combined with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) has been shown to be effective at eradicating disease. Chemotherapy has been less effective, providing disease stabilization but not demonstrating significant treatment responses. Mucolytic is a potential class of drug that may be exploited in the chemical management of this disease. A variety of potential mucolytic agents are explored in this review providing evidence of basic biochemical evidence of its efficacy with potential translational application.

Laparoscopic Diagnosis and Laparoscopic Hyperthermic Intraoperative Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy for Pseudomyxoma Peritonei Detected by CT Examination

Background. Patients with early stage of pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP) are sometimes difficult to diagnose the primary sites and intraperitoneal spread of tumor and to perform a cytological study. Methods. Patients without a definitive diagnosis and with unknown extent of peritoneal spread of tumor underwent laparoscopy. Hyperthermic intraoperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) was administered as part of the same intervention. The results of treatment were evaluated at the time of second-look laparotomy (SLL) as a subsequent intervention. Results. Eleven patients were managed by diagnostic laparoscopy followed by laparoscopic HIPEC (LHIPEC). The operation time of laparoscopic examination and LHIPEC was 177 ± 26 min (range 124–261 min). No intraoperative complication was experienced. The peritoneal carcinomatosis index (PCI) score by laparoscopic observation was 16.5 ± 6.4 (range 0–30). One patient with localized pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP) mucocele did not received LHIPEC; the other 10 patients with peritoneal metastases (PM) were treated with LHIPEC. After LHIPEC, ascites disappeared in 2 cases and decreased in the amount in the other 8 cases. Nine patients underwent SLL and cytoreductive surgery (CRS) combined with HIPEC. The duration between LHIPEC and SLL ranged from 40 to 207 days (97 ± 40 days). The PCI at the SLL ranged from 4 to 27 (12.9 ± 7.1). The PCI at the time of SLL decreased as compared to PCI at the time of diagnostic laparotomy in 7 of 9 patients. Median follow-up period is 22 months (range 7–35). All 11 patients are alive. Conclusion. The early results suggest that laparoscopic diagnosis combined with LHIPEC is useful to determine the surgical treatment plan and reduce the tumor burden before definitive CRS at SLL.

Pseudomyxoma peritonei as an intractable disease and its preoperative assessment to help improve prognosis after surgery: A review of the literature

Pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP) is a rare and intractable disease with an estimated incidence of one per million population per year. Many aspects of PMP need to be fully and precisely understood; these include its preoperative assessment, i.e. diagnosis, early diagnosis, pathologic classification, and staging according to the peritoneal cancer index, and its surgical treatment. This review focuses on elements of preoperative assessment and surgery using the Sugarbaker procedure to help improve the prognosis for patients with PMP. Accurate data on the incidence of PMP must be based on large populations rather than estimates, and much work needs to be done especially in China. Special attention should be paid to its preoperative assessment. Also proposed here are steps to manage PMP with an emphasis on preoperative assessment.

Operability and early outcome in 48 Irish patients with peritoneal malignancy treated by surgery and intraperitoneal chemotherapy in a specialized centre

BACKGROUND

In selected cases of peritoneal malignancy a novel approach of complete macroscopic tumour removal by extensive surgical cytoreduction, combined with intraperitoneal chemotherapy, provides a possibility of cure. The experience with 48 consecutive Irish cases undergoing laparotomy in a specialized centre is reported.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A subset of 48 Irish patients out of a total of 120 cases with peritoneal malignancy underwent surgery between September 1999 and March 2011 in an English National referral centre. Overall 37/48 (77%) had appendiceal mucinous tumours with pseudomyxoma peritonei type syndrome. The treatment strategy involved macroscopic complete tumour removal (complete cytoreduction) combined with intra-operative, intraperitoneal chemotherapy.

RESULTS

Overall 30/48 (62.5%) had complete cytoreduction, 15/48 (31.3%) had major debulking and 3 (4.2%) had laparotomy and biopsy only. The median (range) operating time in hours was 9.8 (4.8-16) in the 30 who had complete cytoreduction compared with 6.3 (4.5-11) in the 15 who had debulking (p = 0.019). There was no post-operative mortality. Overall five year survival for the complete tumour removal group was 66% compared with 12% for those only amenable to major debulking.

CONCLUSION

This novel strategy of cytoreduction combined with intraperitoneal chemotherapy is effective in selected patients with peritoneal malignancy. The complex surgery is particularly effective for appendiceal tumours and provides the only possibility of cure in this challenging disease.

Mucolysis by ascorbic acid and hydrogen peroxide on compact mucin secreted in pseudomyxoma peritonei

BACKGROUND

This study examines the potential efficacy of hydrogen peroxide and ascorbic acid in the dissolution of mucinous ascites from pseudomyxoma peritonei.

METHODS

The mucolytic action of both ascorbic acid (0%-0.2%) and hydrogen peroxide (0%-3%) are investigated as single agent on mucin samples derived from patient. This was followed by examining the joint action of ascorbic acid (0.2%) and hydrogen peroxide (0%-3.0%) on mucin. To lower the concentration of hydrogen peroxide in the mixture, the action of equal concentration of ascorbic acid/hydrogen peroxide ranging from 0%-0.3% are then examined. Finally, the pH (4.5-7.0) effect on mucolytic properties of equal concentration (0.2%) of ascorbic acid/hydrogen peroxide was studied.

RESULTS

At the concentrations examined (0%-0.2%), ascorbic acid showed highest mucolytic activity at 0.2%. Similarly, hydrogen peroxide as a single agent (0%-3.0%) showed highest mucolytic activity at 3.0%. The mucolytic action of hydrogen peroxide (0%-3.0%) containing 0.2% ascorbic acid demonstrated synergistic effects. At equal concentration of the two agents, ranging from 0%-0.5%, maximal mucolytic action was observed at 0.2%. The mucolytic property of the final mixture (0.2% ascorbic acid/0.2% hydrogen peroxide) was pH-dependent and showed maximal degradation at pH 4.5 and declined as it reached towards neutral pH.

CONCLUSION

The current study introduces the potential applicability of a formulation that holds promise as a mucolytic agent in patients with mucinous ascites from pseudomyxoma peritonei.

Early recurrence of pseudomyxoma peritonei following treatment failure of cytoreductive surgery and perioperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy is indicative of a poor survival outcome

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to identify predictors of early recurrence to optimize outcomes.

METHODS

A comparison of clinicopathological factors between patients who developed early recurrence (≤12 months) and late recurrence (>12 months) was performed to identify predictors of treatment failure through univariate and multivariate analyses. Survival parameters were estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method.

RESULTS

A total of 113 patients with a median PCI of 24 (range, 2-39) underwent cytoreductive surgery. The median progression-free and overall survival was 48 and 104 months, respectively. Multivariate analysis identified prior operations >1, ≥10 units of fresh frozen plasma (FFP) transfusion, incomplete cytoreduction and not undergoing definitive cytoreductive surgery within 12 months of diagnosis as predictors for disease recurrence. Twenty of 41 patients (49%) developed early recurrence. The median overall survival of patients who developed early recurrence was 38 months and in patients who did not develop early recurrence was 97 months (P = 0.002). Subgroup analysis of patients with recurrence identified the male gender (P = 0.028), elevated CA 125 (P = 0.037), having elevated carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), CA 125 and CA 19-9 (P = 0.029), peritoneal cancer index >25 (P = 0.020), incomplete cytoreduction (P = 0.020), >6 units of blood transfusion (P = 0.020) and >10 units of FFP transfusion (P = 0.009) as factors associated with early recurrence.

CONCLUSION

Early recurrence of pseudomyxoma peritonei occurs despite achieving high rates of oncologically optimal cytoreduction. The clinicopathologic factors associated with early recurrence identified in this study may inform us about patients at greatest risk of treatment failure during the post cytoreduction follow-up.

Histological origin of pseudomyxoma peritonei in Chinese women: Clinicopathology and immunohistochemistry

AIM: To investigate the histological origin of pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP) in Chinese women.

METHODS: The clinical and pathological data were reviewed for 35 women with PMP, and specimens of the peritoneal, appendiceal and ovarian lesions of each patient were examined using the PV-6000 immunohistochemistry method. Antibodies included cytokeratin (CK)7, CK20, mucin (MUC)-1, MUC-2, carbohydrate antigen (CA)-125, estrogen receptor (ER), and progesterone receptor (PR).

RESULTS: Abundant colloidal mucinous tumors were observed in the peritoneum in all 35 cases. Thirty-one patients had a history of appendectomy, 28 of whom had mucinous lesions. There was one patient with appendicitis, one whose appendix showed no apparent pathological changes, and one with unknown surgical pathology. Ovarian mucinous tumors were found in 24 patients. The tumors were bilateral in 13 patients, on the right-side in nine, and on the left side in two. Twenty patients had combined appendiceal and ovarian lesions; 16 of whom had undergone initial surgery for appendiceal lesions. Four patients had undergone initial surgery for ovarian lesions, and relapse occurred in these patients at 1, 11, 32 and 85 mo after initial surgery. Appendiceal mucinous tumors were found in each of these four patients. Thirty-three of the 35 patients showed peritoneal lesions that were positive for CK20 and MUC-2, but negative for CK7, MUC-1, CA125, ER and PR. The expression patterns in the appendix and the ovary were similar to those of the peritoneal lesions. In one of the remaining two cases, CK20, CK7 and MUC-2 were positive, and MUC-1, CA125, ER and PR were negative. The ovaries were not resected. The appendix of one patient was removed at another hospital, and no specimen was evaluated. In the other case, the appendix appeared to be normal during surgery, and was not resected. Peritoneal and ovarian lesions were negative for CK20, MUC-2, CK7, MUC-1, CA125, ER and PR.

CONCLUSION: Most PMP originated from the appendix. Among women with PMP, the ovarian tumors were implanted rather than primary. For patients with PMP, appendectomy should be performed routinely. The ovaries, especially the right ovaries should be explored.

Subperitoneal adenomucinosis following proctocolectomy for ulcerative colitis

Adenomucinosis is a rare condition characterized by accumulation of large volumes of mucin, typically related to mucinous neoplasms of the appendix within the peritoneal space. Extraperitoneal adenomucinosis is an uncommon variant where mucin accumulates outside the peritoneal space and usually arises following surgery for mucinous appendiceal neoplasms. This is a case of subperitoneal adenomucinosis resulting from retention of a small fragment of rectal mucosa following proctocolectomy for ulcerative colitis 16 years prior. The patient presented with a slow-growing boggy perineal mass. Contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed the mass to be localized to the pelvis, without solid enhancing components, and correctly facilitated local surgical excision without the risk of peritoneal dissemination and accurately predicted benignity.

Operative findings, early complications, and long-term survival in 456 patients with pseudomyxoma peritonei syndrome of appendiceal origin

BACKGROUND

Pseudomyxoma peritonei syndrome is a clinical entity characterized by mucinous ascites usually originating from a perforated mucinous appendiceal tumor. Currently optimal therapy is considered complete macroscopic tumor removal (complete cytoreduction) combined with heated intraperitoneal chemotherapy. When complete cytoreduction is not achievable, major tumor debulking is undertaken. The long-term follow-up of patients undergoing surgery for perforated appendiceal tumors in a national pseudomyxoma center is reported.

METHODS

Between March 1994 and July 2009, 456 patients with pseudomyxoma peritonei syndrome from perforated appendiceal tumors underwent surgery. The treatment strategy involved a combination of cytoreductve surgery aiming for macroscopic tumor removal, combined with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy with mitomycin C. Where complete tumor removal was not possible, maximal tumor debulking was performed. Perioperative outcomes and predicted 5- and 10-year survival are reported.

RESULTS

Overall 15 of 456 (3%) tumors were not resectable at laparotomy. Of the 441 patients who had resection, 289 (66%) had complete cytoreduction and 152 (34%) had major tumor debulking. Postoperative in-hospital mortality was 1.6% and grade 3/4 morbidity was 7%. The Kaplan-Meier method predicted 5- and 10-year overall survival of 69% and 57%, respectively. Five- and 10-year predicted survival was 87% and 74% for the 289 patients who had complete cytoreduction compared with 34% and 23% for the 152 who had major tumor debulking.

CONCLUSION

Complete tumor removal was achieved in 289 of 441 (66%) patients with peritoneal dissemination from perforated appendiceal tumors with good long-term survival and probable cure in more than two-thirds.

On or in the liver? Two cases with diffuse pseudomyxoma peritonei and synchronous hepatic pathology

Pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP) is a borderline malignancy, simulating carcinomatosis and generally arising from perforation of an appendiceal mucinous tumour. Some patients have coincidental dual pathology. Liver abnormalities in particular may be overlooked and/or misclassified. We report 2 cases of patients who had diffuse PMP with synchronous hepatic pathology to highlight the need for vigilance and appropriate assessment of coincidental liver lesions. An assessment and management strategy is outlined.

Radiological staging of ovarian carcinoma

Ovarian cancer is the sixth most commonly diagnosed cancer in the world, accounting for 4% of all female cancers. An estimated 1 in 71 women in the United States will develop ovarian cancer in their lifetime. Accurate staging of ovarian carcinoma is vital in the appropriate management and counseling of patients. The surgical staging proposed by the International Federation of Obstetrics and Gynaecology is the most universally used, and International Federation of Obstetrics and Gynaecology encourages the use of imaging techniques to assess prognostic factors, such as resectable disease and lymph node status. Identifying the volume and locations of tumor is valuable in planning percutaneous tissue biopsy, triaging patients to either primary cytoreductive surgery, or primary platinum-based chemotherapy. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography is the modality of choice for the staging of ovarian carcinoma, with magnetic resonance imaging being used as a problem-solving tool. In this article we discuss and illustrate the staging of ovarian carcinoma, with emphasis on the current imaging modalities and optimal image acquisition.

Application of advanced multimodality care to pseudomyxoma peritonei patient: report of first patient treated at a tertiary center

Pseudomyxoma peritonei following dissemination of appendicealmucinous neoplasms is slowly progressive but inevitably a lethal condition. It is locally invasive and does not lead to lymph node or distant metastasis making it amenable for more radical procedures. We present a case of pseudomyxoma peritonei treated by Cytoreductive surgery(CRS)and heated intraperitoneal chemotherapy(HIPEC) with Mitomycin C (12.5mg/m2 ) at 41.50 C. This was followed by five cycles of early postoperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy (EPIC) with 5FU (650 mg/m2) over 5 days. Patient underwent standard Peritonectomy procedure combined with resection of gallbladder, Spleen, subtotal colectomy and resection of part of small bowel. Blood loss during theprocedure was 4000ml. Histopathology revealed Pseudomyxoma peritonei (hybrid type). The patient recuperated well and was discharged and now is living a productive life. Peritonectomy with perioperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy is the current standard of treatment for appendiceal tumors with peritoneal dissemination which offers a hope of disease free long survival in such patients.

Secondary cytoreduction and perioperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy after initial debulking of pseudomyxoma peritonei: a study of timing and the impact of malignant dedifferentiation

BACKGROUND

Cytoreductive surgery and perioperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy (PIC) is recognized as an effective treatment modality for patients with pseudomyxoma peritonei. This study investigates its role as a secondary definitive treatment procedure after earlier primary treatments.

STUDY DESIGN

Patients with pseudomyxoma peritonei undergoing secondary cytoreduction combined with PIC were identified from a prospective database. Retrospective analysis investigated the outcomes, prognostic factors, critical time points, and impact of malignant dedifferentiation. Survival analysis was performed via the Kaplan-Meier method and compared via the log-rank test.

RESULTS

The median time to progression after secondary cytoreduction was 28 months (95% CI 14 to 41 months), median survival was 97 months (95% CI 82 to 113 months), and 10-year survival was 25%. Median overall survival from initial diagnosis was 17 years and 10-year survival rate was 75%. Forty-five patients remained disease free (63%). Requiring an urgent treatment (waiting time < 60 days) after disease progression (p = 0.045) and having moderate or severe symptoms (p = 0.033) were associated with a shorter time to progression. Improved survival was associated with patients who had low-grade tumors (p = 0.029), and those who required less urgent treatment (wait > 30 days) after disease progression (waiting up to 15 days, p = 0.010; waiting up to 30 days, p = 0.005). Malignant dedifferentiation appeared to affect survival from initial diagnosis (p = 0.062) and after secondary cytoreduction (p = 0.006).

CONCLUSIONS

Secondary cytoreduction with PIC achieves long-term survival. Tumors that undergo malignant dedifferentiation appear to adversely affect survival, and this may support the rationale for early definitive treatment with cytoreduction and PIC.

Survival of patients with pseudomyxoma peritonei treated by serial debulking

AIM

We evaluated the outcome of patients with pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP) after traditional debulking. PMP is a clinical condition characterized by disseminated intraperitoneal mucinous tumours often accompanied by mucinous ascites derived usually from an appendiceal neoplasm. Patients with PMP have traditionally been treated by serial debulking, but aggressive cytoreduction followed by hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy is now advocated as standard treatment in PMP.

METHOD

The analysis included 33 consecutive patients with PMP who underwent traditional debulking surgery between June 1984 and August 2008. The patient characteristics and details of the treatment were analysed retrospectively. The primary end-point was survival.

RESULTS

The overall 5- and 10-year survival rates were 67% and 31% respectively. The patients underwent an average of 3.2 +/- 0.4 operations (range 1-10). Of 33 patients, 23 (70%) underwent only 1-3 operations. The 30-day operative mortality rate was 2.7%. However, four patients (12%) seemed to have achieved long-term disease-free survival of more than 5 years.

CONCLUSIONS

The 5-year survival is comparable with results achieved in patients receiving a combination of cytoreductive surgery and intraperitoneal chemotherapy, but in the long term, the latter seems superior.

Pseudomyxoma peritonei: a French multicentric study of 301 patients treated with cytoreductive surgery and intraperitoneal chemotherapy

OBJECTIVE

To analyze a large series of patients with pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP) treated with cytoreductive surgery associated with perioperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy (PIC) in 18 French-speaking centers.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

From March 1993 to December 2007, 301 patients with diffuse PMP were treated by cytoreductive surgery with PIC. Complete cytoreductive surgery was achieved in 219 patients (73%), and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) was performed in 255 (85%), mainly during the latter period of the study.

RESULTS

Postoperative mortality and morbidity were 4.4% and 40%, respectively. The mean follow-up was 88 months. The 5-year overall and disease-free survival rates were 73% and 56%, respectively. The multivariate analysis identified 5 prognostic factors: the extent of peritoneal seeding (p=0.004), the center (p=0.0004), the pathologic grade (p=0.03), gender (p=0.02), and the use of HIPEC (p=0.04). When only the 206 patients with complete cytoreductive surgery were considered, the extent of peritoneal seeding was the only significant prognostic factor (p=0.004).

CONCLUSION

This large multicentric retrospective study confirms that cytoreductive surgery combined with PIC (with the use of hyperthermia) should be considered as the gold standard treatment of PMP and should be performed in specialized centers. It underlines the prognostic impact of the extent of peritoneal seeding, especially in patients treated by complete cytoreductive surgery. This prognostic impact appears to be greater than that of the pathologic grade.

Cytoreductive Surgery and Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (HIPEC) in a Patient with Peritoneal Mesothelioma and HIV Infection

Background

High rates of septic complications have been associated with cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy, which has been suggested as the treatment of choice for isolated peritoneal malignancies. Patients infected by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) are still considered at a high operative risk.

Method

A 58-year-old man with HIV infection and diffuse peritoneal mesothelioma underwent optimal cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy.

Results

The patient experienced a complete clinical response to therapy with no adverse effect on disease course or markers for HIV (CD4 count, beta2-microglobulin, neopterin, p24 antigen, and viral load).

Conclusion

This report suggests that this innovative approach can be successfully performed also in this clinical setting. In selected patients who respond to all criteria, surgery is possible and is a safe and effective therapeutic option.

Peritoneal pseudomyxoma arising from the urachus

Pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP) arising from urachal tumors is extremely rare. To our knowledge, natural history, tumor biological behaviour, morbidity, treatment, and prognosis of PMP arising from the urachus are determined by the associated PMP. Management of urachal tumors with associated PMP should be based on aggressive locorregional therapy with cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy, similar to PMP arising from other origins.

Pseudomyxoma peritonei

Pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP) is an uncommon “borderline malignancy” generally arising from a perforated appendiceal epithelial tumour. Optimal treatment involves a combination of cytoreductive surgery (CRS) with heated intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC). Controversy persists regarding the pathological classification and its prognostic value. Computed tomography scanning is the optimal preoperative staging technique. Tumour marker elevations correlate with worse prognosis and increased recurrence rates. Following CRS with HIPEC, 5-year survival ranges from 62.5% to 100% for low grade, and 0%-65% for high grade disease. Treatment related morbidity and mortality ranges from 12 to 67.6%, and 0 to 9%, respectively. Surgery and HIPEC are the optimal treatment for PMP which is at best a “borderline” peritoneal malignancy.

Secondary tumors and tumorlike lesions of the peritoneal cavity: imaging features with pathologic correlation

Tumors and tumorlike lesions that secondarily involve the mesothelial or submesothelial layers of the peritoneum are a diverse group of disorders that range in biologic behavior from benign to highly malignant. The anatomy of peritoneal ligaments and mesenteries and the normal circulation of peritoneal fluid dictate location and distribution of these diseases within the peritoneal cavity. Peritoneal carcinomatosis is the most common secondary tumor to affect the peritoneal cavity. When it arises from carcinomas of the gastrointestinal tract or ovary, the prognosis is grave. However, when low-grade mucinous adenocarcinoma of the appendix spreads to the peritoneal cavity, the consequence is typically pseudomyxoma peritonei, which is a clinical syndrome, characterized by recurrent and recalcitrant voluminous mucinous ascites due to surface growth on the peritoneum without significant invasion of underlying tissues. Carcinomas from elsewhere in the body, as well as lymphomas and sarcomas, may also produce diffuse peritoneal metastasis. Granulomatous peritonitis is the consequence of disseminated infection such as tuberculosis or histoplasmosis, foreign materials, or rupture of a tumor or hollow viscus. Finally, a group of benign miscellaneous conditions that range from common disorders such as endometriosis and splenosis to very rare conditions such as gliomatosis peritonei and melanosis may also affect the peritoneum diffusely. Secondary tumors and tumorlike lesions of the peritoneum have overlapping imaging features when compared with each other and primary peritoneal tumors. Knowledge of peritoneal anatomy, normal fluid circulation within the peritoneal cavity, and clinical and pathologic features of secondary peritoneal lesions is essential for identification of these lesions.

Management of appendiceal pseudomyxoma peritonei diagnosed during pregnancy

BACKGROUND

The incidence of cancer during pregnancy is approximately 1 in 1000. The most common types encountered during pregnancy are cervical, breast and ovarian. Epithelial tumors of the appendix on the other hand are rare and account for only approximately 1% of all colorectal neoplasms; the occurrence of this neoplasm during pregnancy is extremely rare.

CASE PRESENTATION

The medical history of a 30 year old woman diagnosed at 17 weeks gestation with an appendiceal mucinous tumor with large volume pseudomyxoma peritonei was presented. Her pregnancy was preserved and she had an early vaginal delivery of a healthy baby at 35 weeks. At 2 1/2 weeks postpartum the patient underwent extensive cytoreductive surgery and intraperitoneal chemotherapy. She remains disease-free 5 years after her initial diagnosis. A literature review of this clinical situation and a discussion of treatment plans were presented.

CONCLUSION

The management of an appendiceal tumor with pseudomyxoma peritonei diagnosed during pregnancy requires full knowledge of the natural history of this disease to achieve a balance of concern for maternal survival and fetal health.

Long-term survival in patients with pseudomyxoma peritonei treated with cytoreductive surgery and perioperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy: 10 years of experience from a single institution

BACKGROUND

Cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and perioperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy (PIC) has been recognized as a treatment option for pseudomyxoma peritonei. This study reports the survival outcomes, clinicopathological prognostic factors, and a learning curve from a single institution's experience.

METHODS

Patients with pseudomyxoma peritonei underwent CRS and PIC, which was comprised of hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) and/or early postoperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy (EPIC), according to a standardized treatment protocol in our institution. Clinicopathological factors were analyzed to determine their prognostic value for survival using univariate and multivariate analysis. Time period comparison was performed to study the effect of a learning curve.

RESULTS

A total of 106 patients (43 men and 63 women) were treated. The mortality rate was 3% and severe morbidity rate was 49%. The median follow-up was 23 (range, 0-140) months. The overall median survival was 104 months with a 5-year survival rate of 75%. The progression-free survival was 40 months with a 1-year progression-free survival rate of 71%. Factors influencing survival include histopathological type of tumor, use of both HIPEC and EPIC, peritoneal cancer index, completeness of cytoreduction, and severe morbidity. The results demonstrate a learning curve where patients with a higher peritoneal cancer index (PCI) were treated, reduced amount of blood products required, more patients undergoing HIPEC and the combined HIPEC and EPIC, more redo-procedures performed, and a longer progression-free survival.

CONCLUSIONS

This report demonstrates long-term survival outcomes, acceptable perioperative outcomes, and a learning curve associated with the treatment of patients with pseudomyxoma peritonei.

Thoracic cytoreductive surgery and intraoperative hyperthermic intrathoracic chemotherapy for pseudomyxoma peritonei

BACKGROUND

Pleural dissemination of pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP) is considered an advanced/terminal disease. We review our experience with thoracic cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and intraoperative hyperthermic intrathoracic chemotherapy (HITHOC) for the treatment of pleural recurrence of PMP following previous intraabdominal surgery.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

An observational study of five patients with pleural dissemination from PMP treated with thoracic CRS and intraoperative HITHOC with mitomycin C for 90 min at 41.5 degrees C.

RESULTS

There were three men. The mean age was 46.5 (10.5) years. Postoperatively, one patient developed Grade I, one patient developed Grade III and one patient developed Grade IV postoperative complication. Two patients had an unremarkable postoperative recovery. Only one patient has died 38 months since treatment from abdominal complication of this disease with no evidence of thoracic disease. The four surviving patients are still alive 4.6-47.4 months after treatment. Two patients have evidence of an intraabdominal recurrence.

CONCLUSIONS

Thoracic CRS and intraoperative HITHOC is a safe and effective procedure to treat pleural dissemination from PMP. Long-term disease-free survival can be achieved from this treatment for which no other potentially curative therapy has been described.

Pseudomyxoma peritonei: biological features are the dominant prognostic determinants after complete cytoreduction and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy

OBJECTIVE

To investigate outcome and prognostic factors in patients with pesudomyxoma peritonei (PMP) treated by complete cytoreduction and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy.

BACKGROUND

After comprehensive treatment, prognosis of PMP is predominantly dependent on the completeness of cytoreduction. Once complete cytoreduction is achieved, additional factors predicting long-term outcome are still poorly understood.

METHODS

From a prospective database, we selected 102 patients undergoing complete cytoreduction (residual tumor nodules < or =2.5 mm) and closed-abdomen hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy with mitomycin-C and cisplatin. Previously, 22 patients had systemic chemotherapy. PMP was histologically classified into disseminated peritoneal adenomucinosis, peritoneal mucinous carcinomatosis (PMCA), and intermediate/discordant group. Twenty-one patient-, tumor-, and treatment-related variables were assessed by multivariate analysis with respect to overall (OS) and progression-free (PFS) survival. The following immunohistochemical markers were tested: cytokeratin (CK)-7, CK-20, CDX-2, MUC-2, and MUC-5AC.

RESULTS

Operative mortality was 1%. Seventy-eight patients were diagnosed with disseminated peritoneal adenomucinosis, 24 with PMCA, none with intermediate/discordant group. For the overall series, median follow-up, 5-year OS, and PFS were 45 months (range 1-110), 84.4%, and 48.3%, respectively. In most cases, CK20, CDX-2, and MUC-2 were diffusely positive, whereas CK-7 and MUC-5AC were variably expressed. At multivariate analysis, previous systemic chemotherapy and PMCA correlated to both worse OS and PFS, elevated serum CA125 only to worse PFS. CK20, CDX-2, and MUC-2 expression correlated to prognosis at univariate analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

After complete cytoreduction and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy, prognosis of PMP is primarily dependent on pathologic and biologic features. MUC-2, CK-20, and CDX-2 may be related to the disease biology. Understanding PMP molecular basis may facilitate personalized treatment.

Appendiceal carcinoma: a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge

Appendiceal carcinoma is a very rare clinical entity, constituting 1% of all colorectal malignancies and 1% of all appendectomy specimens. Appendiceal malignancies often present atypically, thus creating diagnostic challenges. We present a patient with mucinous carcinoma of the appendix who presented with hematuria and abdominal pain. Similar case reports are extremely rare in the literature, while typical presentations of appendiceal carcinoma include abdominal pain, abdominal mass, early satiety, nausea, and iron-deficiency anemia. Initially, the diagnostic investigation in our patient was focused on urinary tract disorders, but ultimately resulted in finding a mucinous appendiceal carcinoma. The carcinoma had invaded the urinary bladder and was disseminated in the peritoneal cavity. Aggressive cytoreductive surgery is the most common therapeutic approach for disseminated tumors, often followed by intraperitoneal chemotherapy. However, treatment should be individualized based on patient-specific parameters, such as the presence of comorbidities, performance status, as well as the presence of metastatic disease. Our patient had optimal cytoreduction with subsequent systemic therapy with 5-fluorouracil, leucovorin, oxaliplatin, and bevacizumab, a monoclonal antibody directed against vascular endothelial growth factor. She completed her treatment regimen without complications and is currently being restaged. An integrative approach is required in the diagnostic investigation and management of appendiceal malignancies.

Consensus statement on the loco-regional treatment of appendiceal mucinous neoplasms with peritoneal dissemination (pseudomyxoma peritonei)

Pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP) is a rare condition mostly originating from low malignant potential mucinous tumours of the appendix. Although this disease process is minimally invasive and rarely causes haematogenous or lymphatic metastases, expectation of long-term survival are limited with no prospect of cure. Recently, the combined approach of cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and perioperative loco-regional chemotherapy (PLC) has been proposed as the standard of treatment for the disease. The present paper summarizes the available literature data and the main features of the comprehensive loco-regional treatment of PMP. The controversial issues concerning the indications and technical methodology in PMP management were discussed through a web-based voting system by internationally known experts. Results were presented for further evaluation during a dedicated session of "The Fifth International Workshop on Peritoneal Surface Malignancy (Milan, Italy, December 4-6, 2006)". The experts agreed that multiple prospective trials support a benefit of the procedure in terms of improved survival, as compared with historical controls. Concerning the main controversial methodological questions, there was an high grade of consistency among the experts and agreement with the findings of the literature.

Peritoneal pseudomyxoma: results of a systematic policy of complete cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy

BACKGROUND

Pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP) is characterized by progressive intraperitoneal accumulation of mucous and mucinous implants, usually derived from a ruptured, possibly malignant mucinous neoplasm of the appendix. Treatment based on complete cytoreductive surgery (CCRS) with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) is gaining support. The aim of this study was to identify pre- and perioperative factors of prognostic value.

METHODS

A total of 105 patients (with no residual tumours exceeding 2 mm) were treated with CCRS plus HIPEC based on oxaliplatin. Clinical, radiological, pathological factors and blood markers were analysed to determine their prognostic value for survival.

RESULTS

Mortality (7.6 per cent) and morbidity (67.6 per cent) were significantly correlated with peritoneal index, pathological grade and blood CA19.9 level. The median follow-up was 48 months. Seven patients died after hospital discharge. Overall and disease-free 5-year survival rates were 80.0 and 68.5 per cent respectively. The Cox model identified only two significant factors impacting on disease-free survival: CA19.9 level and pathological grade.

CONCLUSION

CCRS is the most effective treatment for PMP, and adding HIPEC prolongs long-term survival. Further strategies should focus on improving postoperative outcome in extended PMP.

Hepatectomy for colorectal metastases in the presence of extrahepatic disease

This article focuses on hepatectomy for colorectal liver metastases (CLM) in the presence of intra-abdominal extrahepatic disease. The results reported in the literature are reviewed, and the indications and contraindications for hepatectomy in patients who have CLM with extrahepatic disease are discussed in light of the available evidence.

Postoperative adverse events and long-term survival after cytoreductive surgery and intraperitoneal chemotherapy

BACKGROUND

Peritoneal carcinomatosis (PC) is fatal without special combined cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and intraperitoneal chemotherapy (IPC). This study was designed to identify factors that may increase the risk of postoperative morbidity and mortality from combined CRS and IPC interventions for PC. Survival based on primary tumour type and extent of surgery is reported.

METHODS

Between May 1991 and November 2004, 123 patients were treated with CRS and IPC for PC. Based on the National Cancer Institute Common Toxicity Criteria for grade 3 and 4, data on 30 days postoperative morbidity and 90 days mortality were analysed.

RESULTS

Grade 3-4 adverse events were observed in 51 patients (41%) and were associated with stoma formation, duration of surgery, peroperative blood loss and peritoneal cancer index (PCI). Excision, or electrocautery evaporation, of tumour from small bowel surface was correlated to bowel morbidity. Five patients had treatment-related mortality (4%) within 90 days. Survival was associated with macroscopic radical surgery, prior surgical score, PCI and primary tumour type.

CONCLUSIONS

CRS and IPC for PC are associated with high morbidity and mortality. However, in light of the potential benefit indicated by long-term survival, the adverse event from this treatment is considered acceptable.

Pseudomyxoma peritonei: clinical pathological and biological prognostic factors in patients treated with cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC)

BACKGROUND

Surgical cytoreduction combined with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) has been recently advocated as the standard of care for pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP). We reviewed our 10-year monoinstitutional case series to identify selection factors predicting postoperative outcome.

METHODS

One hundred and four patients with PMP were operated on with the aim of performing adequate cytoreduction (residual tumor nodules < or =2.5 mm) and closed-abdomen HIPEC with mytomicin-C and cisplatin. Previously, 26 patients had systemic chemotherapy. PMP was histologically classified into disseminated peritoneal adenomucinosis (DPAM), peritoneal mucinous carcinomatosis (PMCA), and intermediate/discordant group (ID). Immunohistochemical stains were performed for cytokeratin (CK)-7, CK-20, CDX-2, MUC-2, MUC-5AC, CD-44s. The significance of 22 potential clinical, pathological, and biological prognostic variables was assessed by multivariate analysis.

RESULTS

Adequate cytoreduction was performed in 89 patients, suboptimal cytoreduction in six, palliative surgery in nine. Operative mortality was 1%. Seventy-eight patients were diagnosed with DPAM, 26 with PMCA, and none with ID. Median follow-up was 37 months (range, 1-110) for the overall series. Five-year overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) were 78.3% and 31.1%, respectively. At multivariate analysis, adequate cytoreduction, no previous systemic chemotherapy, and DPAM correlated to better OS and PFS, elevated serum CA19.9 correlated only to better PFS. In most cases, CK20, CDX-2, and MUC-2 were diffusely positive, while CK-7, MUC-5AC, and CD44s were variably expressed. CK20 expression correlated to prognosis at univariate analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

Favorable outcome after comprehensive treatment can be expected in patients with DPAM, not treated with preoperative systemic chemotherapy and amenable to adequate cytoreduction. MUC-2, CK-20, and CD44s expression may be related to PMP unique biologic behavior.

Pseudomyxoma peritonei syndrome of appendiceal origin: an overview

Pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP) syndrome is an uncommon, slowly progressive condition that usually arises from perforation of an adenoma in the appendix. PMP syndrome is characterized by mucin accumulation in the peritoneal cavity. Mucinous implants are found on all peritoneal surfaces and the omentum. PMP syndrome rarely metastasizes outside the abdominal cavity but remains a fatal illness as the space in the abdomen and pelvis required for normal function of the gastrointestinal tract becomes filled with copious amounts of the mucinous tumor. Treatment options include observation, aggressive debulking surgery, intraperitoneal chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and mucolytic agents.

Early results of surgery in 123 patients with pseudomyxoma peritonei from a perforated appendiceal neoplasm

PURPOSE

Epithelial appendiceal tumors are uncommon but can present as an emergency simulating appendicitis, or unexpectedly at laparotomy, laparoscopy, or on cross-sectional imaging. Occult rupture with features of pseudomyxoma peritonei may be encountered. We report the operative findings, pathologic assessment, and early outcomes in 123 consecutive patients with a perforated appendiceal neoplasm presenting as pseudomyxoma peritonei.

METHODS

From March 1994 to March 2004, 292 patients were referred to a peritoneal malignancy surgical treatment center. Complete tumor removal (cytoreduction) was attempted in selected patients and, if achieved, surgery was combined with intraoperative, intraperitoneal mitomycin C (10 mg/m(2)).

RESULTS

In total, 123 patients (52 males; 41 percent) underwent laparotomy for a perforated appendiceal malignancy presenting as pseudomyxoma peritonei. The median age was 52 (range 30-77) years. Complete cytoreduction was achieved in 83 of 123 patients (67 percent), major palliative resection in 34 patients (28 percent), and 6 patients (5 percent) were inoperable. Postoperative mortality was 6 of 123 patients (5 percent). Kaplan-Meier analysis of the 83 patients who had complete tumor removal predicted 75 percent disease-free survival at five years.

CONCLUSIONS

A perforated appendiceal epithelial tumor most frequently presents as pseudomyxoma peritonei. This treatment strategy, involving surgery and intraperitoneal chemotherapy, can result in good outcomes in this rare and otherwise fatal disease.

Cytoreductive surgery and perioperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy for pseudomyxoma peritonei from appendiceal mucinous neoplasms

BACKGROUND

Cytoreductive surgery (CRS) combined with perioperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy (PIC) has been used to treat pseudomyxoma peritonei. The aim of this prospective study was to evaluate survival outcome and treatment-related prognostic markers in patients who underwent CRS and PIC for pseudomyxoma peritonei from appendiceal mucinous neoplasms.

METHODS

Survival data and 12 clinicopathological and treatment-related prognostic variables for survival were obtained prospectively in 50 consecutive patients (23 men). Univariate analysis was used to determine their prognostic significance for overall survival, determined from the time of CRS.

RESULTS

The mean(s.d.) age was 52(12) years. Eighteen patients had moderate complications, and six patients had severe complications that required operation or intensive care support. Two patients died after surgery. The actuarial 5-year survival rate was 69 per cent. Univariate analysis demonstrated that the extent of previous surgery (P = 0.045) and Ronnett's histopathological classification (P < 0.001) were significantly related to overall survival.

CONCLUSION

CRS combined with PIC was associated with improved survival in patients with less extensive previous surgery and diffuse peritoneal adenomucinosis histopathological type.

Management of pseudomyxoma peritonei

Pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP) is a rare disease. It refers to a progressive disease process within the peritoneum which originates from the appendix or ovaries and is characterised by the production of copious amounts of mucinous fluid resulting in a “jelly belly”. If untreated the condition is fatal. The traditional approach to PMP is based on repeated surgical debulking procedures, often associated with intraperitoneal or systemic chemotherapy. The natural history of this disease has been drastically modified since the introduction of a new surgical approach defined as a peritonectomy procedure. This paper is to review the literature on this treatment strategy.

A systematic review on the efficacy of cytoreductive surgery and perioperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy for pseudomyxoma peritonei

BACKGROUND

The efficacy of cytoreductive surgery (CRS) combined with perioperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy (PIC) for patients with pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP) remains to be established.

METHODS

Searches for all relevant studies prior to March 2006 were performed on six databases. Two reviewers independently appraised each study using a predetermined protocol. The quality of each study was assessed. Clinical effectiveness was synthesized through a narrative review with full tabulation of results of all included studies.

RESULTS

Ten most recent updates from each institution were included for appraisal and data extraction. There were no randomized controlled trials or comparative studies. All included articles were observational studies without control groups. Five studies were relatively large series (n>or=100). Two studies had relatively long-term follow-up (48 months and 52 months). The median follow-up in the remaining eight studies was shorter than 3 years (range 19-35 months). The median survival ranged from 51 to 156 months. The 1-, 2-, 3- and 5-year survival rates varied from 80 to 100%, 76 to 96%, 59 to 96% and 52 to 96%, respectively. The overall morbidity rate varied from 33 to 56%. The overall mortality rates ranged from 0 to 18%.

CONCLUSIONS

This study reviewed current evidence on CRS and PIC for PMP. Only observational studies were available for evaluation, which demonstrated some promising long-term results, as compared to historical controls. Due to the rarity of this disease, a well-designed prospective multi-institutional study would be meaningful.

Hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy and cytoreductive surgery for peritoneal carcinomatosis of colorectal origin: a novel treatment strategy with promising results in selected patients

Peritoneal carcinomatosis is a major cause of treatment failure in colorectal cancer with few options for treatment. Recent reports, including a single randomized trial, suggest that localized peritoneal carcinomatosis, in the absence of other metastases, could be considered regional metastatic disease analogous to liver metastases, and thus amenable to locoregional therapy. Optimal treatment involves complete tumour removal by complex surgical techniques, combined with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC). This treatment strategy has significant morbidity and mortality risks and careful selection is essential to avoid futile procedures. The best results are achieved in patients with limited disease who have complete macroscopic tumour removal, when the primary and peritoneal metastases are removed synchronously, and when the primary tumour is a cancer of the appendix. Improvements in cross-sectional imaging and increasing utilization of laparoscopy in colorectal cancer surgery may help in detecting suitable cases for these techniques. Selected patients with localized disease have been shown to have good outcomes with prolonged survival and perhaps a possibility of cure.

Peritoneal cancer treatment with CYP2B1 transfected, microencapsulated cells and ifosfamide

The prognosis of peritoneal spread from gastrointestinal cancer and subsequent malignant ascites is poor, and current medical treatments available are mostly ineffective. Targeted chemotherapy with intraperitoneal prodrug activation may be a beneficial new approach. L293 cells were genetically modified to express the cytochrome P450 enzyme 2B1 under the control of a cytomegalovirus immediate early promoter. This CYP2B1 enzyme converts ifosfamide to its active cytotoxic compounds. The cells are encapsulated in a cellulose sulfate formulation (Capcell). Adult Balb/c mice were inoculated intraperitoneally with 1 x 10(6) colon 26 cancer cells, previously transfected with GFP to emit a stable green fluorescence, by injection into the left lower abdominal quadrant. Two or five day's later animals were randomly subjected to either i.p. treatment with ifosfamide alone or ifosfamide combined with microencapsulated CYP2B1-expressing cells. Peritoneal tumor volume and tumor viability were assessed 10 days after tumor inoculation by means of fluorescence microscopy, spectroscopy and histology. Early i.p. treatment with ifosfamide and CYP2B1 cells resulted in a complete response. Treatment starting on day 5 and single-drug treatment with ifosfamide resulted in a partial response. These results suggest that targeted i.p. chemotherapy using a combination of a prodrug and its converting enzyme may be a successful treatment strategy for peritoneal spread from colorectal cancer.

Establishment of a peritoneal malignancy treatment centre in the United Kingdom

The development, funding and early treatment outcomes of a centre for the assessment and management of a rare tumour is outlined. Central government funding, as obtained from the National Health Service in this instance, is optimal to allow service development and outcome assessment. The initiation and development of a new specialized service is probably best approached by focusing on a condition that is rare, with a reasonable number of cases and good outcomes. This report reviews an experience focusing on "pseudomyxoma peritonei of appendiceal origin" with an estimated annual incidence of one per million per year. The experience of a colorectal unit in structuring a national centre is reviewed in an attempt to document the development, funding and resources required to initiate and maintain a unit. The surgical skill, with its associated learning curve, and some early results of treatment are presented with the hope that such an experience may be of help to others.

Management of an unexpected appendiceal neoplasm

BACKGROUND

Appendiceal neoplasms are rare and most present unexpectedly as acute appendicitis. The classification and management are confusing, and there are few substantial reports in the literature.

METHODS

A systematic literature review was performed to access relevant publications on the presentation, pathology and management of appendiceal tumours.

RESULTS

Appendiceal tumours account for 0.4 to 1 per cent of all gastrointestinal tract malignancies and are found in 0.7 to 1.7 per cent of appendicectomy specimens. Carcinoid tumours are most common. Most are cured by simple appendicectomy if the tumour is less than 2 cm in size and does not involve the resection margin or mesoappendix. Epithelial tumours may present with, or in time develop, pseudomyxoma peritonei, the optimal management of which involves complete tumour resection and intraperitoneal chemotherapy, usually available only in specialized centres.

CONCLUSION

Suggested algorithms for the management of unexpected appendiceal tumours are provided. Recommendations are made for follow-up of patients with a perforated appendiceal epithelial tumour.