Appendiceal neoplasms and pseudomyxoma peritonei: a population based study

Updates in Appendix Pathology: The Precarious Cutting Edge

Mucinous appendiceal tumors include low-grade appendiceal mucinous neoplasm, high-grade appendiceal mucinous neoplasm, and mucinous adenocarcinoma. Nonmucinous adenocarcinomas are less frequent. Recent consensus guidelines and the latest edition of the World Health Organization classification will allow consistent use of agreed nomenclature. Accurate diagnosis is important not only for patient management but also to allow comparison of results between centers and tumor registries. Serrated polyps are the most common benign polyp in the appendix. They need to be distinguished from low-grade appendiceal mucinous neoplasm, which can also mimic other benign conditions. Goblet cell adenocarcinomas are a distinctive type of appendiceal neoplasm.

Pseudomyxoma Peritonei Originating from Transverse Colon Mucinous Adenocarcinoma: A Case Report and Literature Review

BACKGROUND

Pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP) is a rare neoplasm involving the peritoneum. Most PMPs are low-grade appendicular mucinous neoplasms (LAMNs). There have been no reports of PMP originating from a transverse colonic mucinous adenocarcinoma and causing metastatic mucinous adenocarcinoma. Case Presentation. We report a 46-year-old woman who presented with a right abdominal mass of more than 4-month duration. Transverse colonic mucinous adenocarcinoma, PMP, and ovarian metastatic mucinous adenocarcinoma were diagnosed. The patient's diet was normal, and she had no abdominal pain or bloating. The abdomen mass increased in the month before treatment. After chemotherapy, the transverse colon mass and ovarian giant cyst were resected and about 2000 mL of gelatinous tumor tissue was removed. Postoperative histology confirmed PMP from the transverse colonic mucinous adenocarcinoma, ovarian metastatic mucinous adenocarcinoma, and mesocolon metastatic cancer. Multiple lung metastases appeared 8 months after surgery. The patient died 29 months after surgery because of an inability to eat and poor nutrition. A systematic literature review of the management and outcome of all known similar cases is also presented.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first report of PMP originating from a transverse colonic mucinous adenocarcinoma. It was diagnosed during resective surgery, involved ovarian metastasis, and survival was short. We did an extensive literature review in order to describe the clinical characteristics, histopathological findings, genetic profile, and potential treatments of PMP caused by nonappendiceal mucinous adenocarcinoma.

The role of mucin cell-free DNA detection as a new marker for the study of acellular pseudomyxoma peritonei of appendicular origin by liquid biopsy

Background:

Acellular pseudomyxoma peritonei (aPMP) is a rare peritoneal malignancy characterized by the accumulation of large amounts of mucin (lacking tumor cells) in the peritoneum. Many cases account for several kilograms of mucin to be screened by the pathologist. This is a comprehensive study of three patients with aPMP, whose tumors showed KRAS mutation, allowing for the tracking of this marker by liquid biopsy.

Methods:

Pre and post-surgery plasma, and mucin removed during cytoreductive surgery were collected from the patients. KRAS mutations were analyzed using droplet digital polymerase chain reaction (ddPCR). Mucin was injected in mice. KRAS and cytokine levels were measured in plasma of the mice using ddPCR and a magnetic bead-based assay. Mucin microbiome was analyzed by 16S rRNA sequencing.

Results:

KRAS mutations were detected in mucin cell-free DNA (cfDNA) from the three patients but not in the pre or post-surgery plasma. Electron microscopy detected microparticles (diameter <0.4 µm) in mucin. Mucin from one patient grew up inside the peritoneal cavity of mice and human KRAS was identified in mucin cfDNA, but not in plasma. All mucins showed the same bacterial profile. Cytokine levels were slightly altered in mice.

Conclusions:

The three aPMP patients included in this study shared some common aspects: the absence of tumor cells in mucin, the presence of KRAS mutated cfDNA in mucin, and the absence of this tumor-derived mutation in the bloodstream, providing additional information to the routine pathological examinations and suggesting that mucin cfDNA could potentially play a role in aPMP recurrence and prognosis.

Proposed Classification of Pseudomyxoma Peritonei: Influence of Signet Ring Cells on Survival

The nomenclature and classification of pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP) is confusing and controversial. Numerous classification systems have been proposed, none of which are easily reproducible or a useful guide for treatment. Patients with PMP of appendiceal origin were identified from our institution's database. Kaplan-Meier analyses were performed based on a proposed new PMP classification, a three-tiered grading system designated PMP1, PMP2, and PMP3. These results were compared with the established schemes by Ronnett and Bradley et al. There were 211 patients included in the analysis with a mean age of 51 ± 12 years at diagnosis. For PMP1, 86 patients (40.8%) included cases with abundant extracellular mucin and columnar non-stratified epithelium without dysplasia or atypia. For PMP3, 50 patients (23.7%) consisted of PMP with any percentage of signet ring cells (SRCs), For PMP2, 75 patients (35.5%) included all other patients. The mean age (± standard deviation) for PMP 1, 2, and 3 were 51 ± 12, 51 ± 12, and 51 ± 10 years, respectively ( P = 0.90). The three groups had similar sex distribution ( P = 0.24) and resection status ( P = 0.47). Kaplan-Meier analyses showed median survivals of 120, 88, and 40 months and 5-year survival rates of 85.7, 63.05, and 32.2 per cent ( P < 0.0001) for PMP 1, 2, and 3, respectively. Three distinct categories, PMP1, 2, and 3, were identified, which provide better stratification in terms of overall survival and represent differences in tumor biology that may impact treatment recommendations.

Improved Outcome Prediction for Appendiceal Pseudomyxoma Peritonei by Integration of Cancer Cell and Stromal Transcriptional Profiles

In recent years, cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) have substantially improved the clinical outcome of pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP) originating from mucinous appendiceal cancer. However, current histopathological grading of appendiceal PMP frequently fails in predicting disease outcome. We recently observed that the integration of cancer cell transcriptional traits with those of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) improves prognostic prediction for tumors of the large intestine. We therefore generated global expression profiles on a consecutive series of 24 PMP patients treated with CRS plus HIPEC. Multiple lesions were profiled for nine patients. We then used expression data to stratify the samples by a previously published “high-risk appendiceal cancer” (HRAC) signature and by a CAF signature that we previously developed for colorectal cancer, or by a combination of both. The prognostic value of the HRAC signature was confirmed in our cohort and further improved by integration of the CAF signature. Classification of cases profiled for multiple lesions revealed the existence of outlier samples and highlighted the need of profiling multiple PMP lesions to select representative samples for optimal performances. The integrated predictor was subsequently validated in an independent PMP cohort. These results provide new insights into PMP biology, revealing a previously unrecognized prognostic role of the stromal component and supporting integration of standard pathological grade with the HRAC and CAF transcriptional signatures to better predict disease outcome.

Estimating the Prevalence of Pseudomyxoma Peritonei in Europe Using a Novel Statistical Method

Background

The determination of the incidence and prevalence of rare diseases is important for economists and health-care providers. Pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP) is a rare, slow-growing abdominal cancer that represents a substantial burden on both patients and health-care systems. The incidence rate was previously approximated at 1–2 people per million per year; this incidence has never been challenged, and the prevalence has not been estimated.

Methods

Epidemiological data from Norway and England were obtained and analysed to calculate a minimum incidence rate based on the number of patients having a first surgical intervention for PMP. A novel method was then used to determine a prevalence rate for PMP, incorporating incidence, death, and cure rates in a multi-year analysis that accounted for the increasing population of Europe over a 10-year period.

Results

An incidence rate of 3.2 people per million per year was calculated, with a corresponding estimated prevalence rate of 22 people per million per year. By this calculation, 11,736 people in Europe were estimated to be living with PMP in 2018.

Conclusion

Incidence and prevalence are essential tools for assessment of the financial and human cost of a disease. For rare diseases, such as PMP, the lack of accurate registries presents a particular challenge in determining such health-related statistical parameters. Based on our calculations, a significant number of people are living with PMP in Europe, underlining the need for appropriate resource allocation to ensure that adequate health-care measures are provided.

Impact of Mucin Cellularity and Distribution on Survival in Newly Diagnosed Patients with Low-Grade Appendiceal Mucinous Neoplasm Treated with Cytoreductive Surgery and Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy

BACKGROUND

Low-grade appendiceal mucinous neoplasms (LAMN) are tumors that frequently present with peritoneal spread of either acellular mucin (AM) or cellular mucin (CM). We aim to determine how mucin types and distribution affect survival. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A retrospective cohort study was conducted using a prospective database. Newly diagnosed LAMN patients with AM versus CM treated with cytoreductive surgery/hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (CRS/HIPEC) were compared. Postoperative pathology reports were reviewed to assess each involved abdominal zone. Survival was analyzed using the Kaplan-Meier method.

RESULTS

Of 121 identified patients, 50 (41%) had peritoneal lesions with AM and 71 (59%) with CM. Peritoneal cancer index was lower in AM versus CM (mean: 19 ± 13 vs 28 ± 10, p = 0.004), but complete cytoreduction (CC) rates were similar (98% vs 96%, p = 0.642). The 5-year progression-free survival (PFS) was higher in AM versus CM (96% vs 69.8%, p = 0.002). CM patients had zones with both types of lesions: with and without cells. The CM subgroup analysis showed significant differences in 5-year progression-free survival (PFS) among patients with 1-3, 4-7, and 8-10 zones with cells (95.2%, 68.4%, and 35.7%, respectively, p < 0.001), but PFS was not affected by the number of zones with any lesion type. There was no difference in overall survival (OS) between groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite comparable CC rates after CRS/HIPEC, CM patients have shorter PFS than AM patients. In CM patients, more zones with cells, but not the total number of involved zones, negatively impact PFS. Mucin type does not impact OS. It is important to assess and report mucin cellularity in LAMN specimens.

Post-inflammatory mucosal hyperplasia and appendiceal diverticula simulate features of low-grade appendiceal mucinous neoplasms

Post-inflammatory mucosal hyperplasia and appendiceal diverticulosis simulate mucinous neoplasms, causing diagnostic confusion. Distinction between neoplasia and its mimics is particularly important since many authorities now consider all appendiceal mucinous neoplasms to be potentially malignant. The purpose of this study was to identify clinicopathologic and molecular features that may distinguish appendiceal mucinous neoplasms from non-neoplastic mimics. We retrospectively identified 92 mucinous lesions confined to the right lower quadrant, including 55 non-neoplastic examples of mucosal hyperplasia and/or diverticulosis and 37 low-grade neoplasms. Presenting symptoms, radiographic findings, appendiceal diameter, appearances of the lamina propria, non-neoplastic crypts, and epithelium, as well as mural changes were recorded. Twenty non-neoplastic lesions were subjected to KRAS mutational testing. Non-neoplastic appendices were smaller (p < 0.05) and more likely to present with symptoms of appendicitis (p < 0.05) than neoplasms. While post-inflammatory mucosal hyperplasia and diverticula often showed goblet cell-rich epithelium, extruded mucin pools, and patchy mural alterations with fibrosis, they always contained non-neoplastic crypts lined by mixed epithelial cell types and separated by lamina propria with predominantly preserved wall architecture. On the other hand, mucinous neoplasms lacked normal crypts (p < 0.05) and showed decreased lamina propria (p < 0.05) with diffusely thickened muscularis mucosae and lymphoid atrophy. Six (30%) non-neoplastic lesions contained KRAS mutations, particularly those containing goblet cell-rich hyperplastic epithelium. We conclude that distinction between neoplastic and non-neoplastic mucinous appendiceal lesions requires recognition of key morphologic features; KRAS mutational testing is an unreliable biomarker that cannot be used to assess biologic risk or confirm a diagnosis of neoplasia.

A scoping review and proposed workflow for multi-omic rare disease research

BACKGROUND

Patients with rare diseases face unique challenges in obtaining a diagnosis, appropriate medical care and access to support services. Whole genome and exome sequencing have increased identification of causal variants compared to single gene testing alone, with diagnostic rates of approximately 50% for inherited diseases, however integrated multi-omic analysis may further increase diagnostic yield. Additionally, multi-omic analysis can aid the explanation of genotypic and phenotypic heterogeneity, which may not be evident from single omic analyses.

MAIN BODY

This scoping review took a systematic approach to comprehensively search the electronic databases MEDLINE, EMBASE, PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Google Scholar, and the grey literature databases OpenGrey / GreyLit for journal articles pertaining to multi-omics and rare disease, written in English and published prior to the 30th December 2018. Additionally, The Cancer Genome Atlas publications were searched for relevant studies and forward citation searching / screening of reference lists was performed to identify further eligible articles. Following title, abstract and full text screening, 66 articles were found to be eligible for inclusion in this review. Of these 42 (64%) were studies of multi-omics and rare cancer, two (3%) were studies of multi-omics and a pre-cancerous condition, and 22 (33.3%) were studies of non-cancerous rare diseases. The average age of participants (where known) across studies was 39.4 years. There has been a significant increase in the number of multi-omic studies in recent years, with 66.7% of included studies conducted since 2016 and 33% since 2018. Fourteen combinations of multi-omic analyses for rare disease research were returned spanning genomics, epigenomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, phenomics and metabolomics.

CONCLUSIONS

This scoping review emphasises the value of multi-omic analysis for rare disease research in several ways compared to single omic analysis, ranging from the provision of a diagnosis, identification of prognostic biomarkers, distinct molecular subtypes (particularly for rare cancers), and identification of novel therapeutic targets. Moving forward there is a critical need for collaboration of multi-omic rare disease studies to increase the potential to generate robust outcomes and development of standardised biorepository collection and reporting structures for multi-omic studies.

Impact of cytoreductive surgery on outcomes of metastatic appendiceal carcinoma: a real-world, population-based study

Aim: To evaluate the impact of cytoreductive surgery on the outcomes of patients with metastatic appendiceal carcinoma. Methods: Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results (SEER) database was accessed and patients with metastatic appendiceal carcinoma diagnosed (2010-2015) were reviewed. Kaplan-Meier survival estimates/log-rank testing were then used to assess overall survival outcomes according to cytoreductive surgery. Multivariable Cox regression analysis was then used to evaluate factors affecting cancer-specific survival. Factors included in this model were age, race, sex, stage and histology and cytoreductive surgery. Results: A total of 1339 patients with metastatic appendiceal carcinoma were included in the current study. Using Kaplan-Meier survival estimates to evaluate overall survival, patients with surgery for metastatic disease have better overall survival compared with patients without surgery for metastatic disease (p < 0.001). Stratifying survival analysis according to histology, the overall survival benefit from surgery for the metastases seems to be limited to patients with mucinous adenocarcinoma (p = 0.002) rather than patients with nonmucinous adenocarcinoma (p = 0.401). Multivariable Cox regression analysis was then conducted to evaluate factors predicting cancer-specific survival. The following factors were associated with worse cancer-specific survival: African-American race (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.356; 95% CI: 1.036-1.774; p = 0.026), more advanced stage (HR: 3.910; 95% CI: 2.735-5.588; p < 0.001), nonmucinous adenocarcinoma (HR for signet ring carcinoma vs mucinous adenocarcinoma: 2.119; 95% CI: 1.674-2.683; p < 0.001) and no surgical resection of metastatic disease (HR: 1.273; 95% CI: 1.067-1.519; p < 0.001). Conclusion: The current study suggests that among patients with metastatic appendiceal carcinoma, surgical cytoreduction of metastatic disease is associated with improved outcomes for patients with mucinous adenocarcinoma but not in patients with nonmucinous adenocarcinoma.

Outcomes Following Cytoreduction and HIPEC for Pseudomyxoma Peritonei: 10-Year Experience

BACKGROUND

Pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP) is a rare clinical presentation, with considerable morbidity and mortality if left untreated. In recent decades, there is growing acceptance for the use of cytoreductive surgery (CRS) with heated intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC). The aim of this study was to report on our 10-year single-center experience on outcomes following CRS and HIPEC for PMP of appendiceal origin.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of a prospectively maintained database of all patients undergoing CRS and HIPEC for PMP of appendiceal origin over a 10-year period at a statewide referral center was conducted.

RESULTS

One hundred and seventy-five cytoreductive procedures were undertaken in 140 patients. The mean patient age was 57.4 years, with a female preponderance (56%). The median PCI was 16, with 73.1% of cases having a complete cytoreduction. Grade III/IV complications occurred in 36 (20.6%) cases, with no mortalities. The median overall and disease-free survival was 100 months and 40 months, respectively, with a 71% 5-year survival. High-grade histology was the main factor identified as an independent predictor of worse overall survival.

CONCLUSION

CRS and HIPEC are safe with acceptable rates of morbidity. It can provide very favorable survival in patients with PMP. High-grade histology is a key prognostic factor associated with a worse overall survival.

Pathology findings following interval appendectomy: Should it stay or go?

PURPOSE

Interval appendectomy following nonoperative management of complicated appendicitis remains controversial. The aim of this study was to evaluate surgical pathology and clinical outcomes after pediatric interval appendectomy.

METHODS

Pathology results from children with complicated appendicitis who underwent interval appendectomy at a single children's hospital from 2010 to 2017 were reviewed. The primary outcome was pathology results. Secondary outcomes included complications and readmission following initial treatment and after interval appendectomy.

RESULTS

Among 149 patients (median age 11 years; range, 1-18), all had evidence of persistent inflammation on surgical pathology, 25 (17%) had an appendicolith, and no neoplasms were identified. Median duration of the initial admission was 8 days (range, 2-28) and 70% received a percutaneous drain prior to appendectomy. Interval appendectomy was performed at a median of 7.5 weeks (range, 2.9-29.1). Thirty-six (24%) returned to the hospital prior to their scheduled appendectomy and 6 (4%) required appendectomy earlier than planned. Nine patients (6%) experienced a complication following interval appendectomy, of which superficial surgical site infection was the most common (n = 4).

CONCLUSION

All children had evidence of ongoing inflammation on surgical pathology. While the clinical implications of persistent inflammation remain uncertain, these findings suggest that interval appendectomy is an appropriate treatment following medical management of complicated appendicitis in children.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE SECTION

IV, Case series with no comparison groups.

A Case of Strangulation Ileus Due to a Low-Grade Appendiceal Mucinous Neoplasm

BACKGROUND Strangulation ileus is caused by external obstruction to the small bowel, which results in ischemia and loss of bowel peristalsis. Low-grade appendiceal mucinous neoplasm (LAMN) is a low-grade adenocarcinoma that arises in the appendix. LAMN is usually asymptomatic but can present with appendiceal rupture and pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP). This report is of a rare presentation of LAMN with strangulation ileus in a 92-year-old man. CASE REPORT A 92-year-old man was admitted to the emergency room with sudden onset of lower abdominal pain and abdominal distension. Laboratory investigations showed a leukocytosis with a white blood cell (WBC) count of 14.6×10³/μL with 85.5% neutrophils, blood urea nitrogen (BUN) of 26.6 mg/dL, and serum creatinine of 2.6 mg/dL, consistent with acute renal failure. Arterial blood gas analysis showed lactic acidosis (pH of 7.11) with a base excess of -20.8 mmol/L and lactate of 13.7 mmol/L. Abdominal computed tomography (CT) showed ascites and a dilated obstructed closed loop of the distal ileum associated with an external mass (3.9×2.8 cm). An initial diagnosis was of strangulation ileus due to Meckel's diverticulum. Emergency ileocecal resection was performed. Histopathology showed a low-grade mucinous tumor arising from the mucosa of the appendix, consistent with LAMN. At a 13-month follow-up, the patient was well with no tumor recurrence. CONCLUSIONS This report is of a rare case of LAMN that presented as a surgical emergency with strangulation ileus.

Repeat cytoreductive surgery with or without intraperitoneal chemotherapy for recurrent epithelial appendiceal neoplasms

Background

With recurrence rates after primary cytoreductive surgery (CRS) in excess of 50 per cent, repeat CRS is being performed increasingly, but survival outcomes have not been reported widely. This study examined the outcomes following repeat CRS for appendiceal cancer with peritoneal surface malignancy (PSM), and evaluated its feasibility and safety.

Methods

A retrospective cohort of patients who had surgery between 1996 and 2018 were analysed. Patients who underwent a single CRS procedure with or without heated intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) were compared with those who had multiple procedures with or without HIPEC. Perioperative morbidity and survival outcomes were analysed.

Results

Some 462 patients were reviewed, 102 of whom had repeat procedures. For high‐grade tumours, patients who had a single CRS procedure had significantly reduced overall survival (OS) compared with those who had repeat CRS (55·6 versus 90·7 months respectively; P = 0·016). For low‐grade tumours, there was no difference in OS (P = 0·153). When patients who had a single procedure were compared with those who had multiple procedures, there was no significant difference in major morbidity (P = 0·441) or in‐hospital mortality (P = 0·080). For multiple procedures, no differences were found in major morbidity (P = 0·262) or in‐hospital mortality (P = 0·502) when the first procedure was compared with the second. For low‐grade cancers, the peritoneal carcinomatosis index was a significant prognostic factor for OS (hazard ratio (HR) 1·11, 95 per cent c.i. 1·05 to 1·17; P < 0·001), whereas for high‐grade cancers repeat CRS (HR 0·57, 0·33 to 0·95; P = 0·033), complete cytoreduction score (HR 1·55, 1·01 to 2·40; P = 0·046) and presence of signet ring cells (HR 2·77, 1·78 to 4·30; P < 0·001) were all significant indicators of long‐term survival.

Conclusion

In selected patients presenting with PSM from epithelial appendiceal neoplasms, repeat CRS performed in high‐volume centres could provide survival benefits.

Efficacy of fibrinogen concentrate in major abdominal surgery - A prospective, randomized, controlled study in cytoreductive surgery for pseudomyxoma peritonei

BACKGROUND

Cytoreductive surgery (CRS) with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy for pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP) is associated with excessive bleeding and acquired fibrinogen deficiency. Maintaining plasma fibrinogen may support hemostasis.

OBJECTIVES

To compare hemostatic efficacy and safety of human fibrinogen concentrate (HFC) vs cryoprecipitate as fibrinogen sources for bleeding patients with acquired fibrinogen deficiency undergoing PMP CRS.

METHODS

FORMA-05 was an off-label single-center, prospective, randomized, controlled phase 2 study. Patients undergoing PMP surgery with predicted intraoperative blood loss ≥2 L received human fibrinogen concentrate (HFC; 4 g) or cryoprecipitate (two pools of 5 units, containing approximately 4.0-4.6 g fibrinogen), repeated as needed. The primary endpoint was a composite of intraoperative and postoperative efficacy, graded using objective 4-point scales and adjudicated by an independent committee.

RESULTS

One hundred percent of patients receiving HFC (95% confidence interval: 83.9-100.0, n = 21) or cryoprecipitate (84.6-100.0, n = 22) achieved hemostatic success. HFC demonstrated noninferior efficacy (P = .0095; post hoc) and arrived in the operating room 46 minutes faster. There were significantly greater mean increases with HFC vs cryoprecipitate in plasma fibrinogen (0.78 vs 0.35 g/L; P < .0001) and FIBTEM A20 (3.33 vs 0.93 mm; P = .003). Factor XIII, factor VIII, and von Willebrand factor activity were maintained throughout surgery. Only red blood cells were transfused intraoperatively (median units: HFC group, 1.0; cryoprecipitate group, 0.5). Thromboembolic events were detected with cryoprecipitate only. Safety was otherwise comparable between groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Human fibrinogen concentrate was hemostatically efficacious in patients undergoing major abdominal PMP surgery, with a favorable safety profile. These results are relevant to other surgical settings where bleeding and acquired fibrinogen deficiency occur.

Increased Risk of Neoplasms in Adult Patients Undergoing Interval Appendectomy

PURPOSE

The low rate of recurrent appendicitis after initial nonsurgical management of complicated appendicitis supports the recently implemented strategy of omitting routine interval appendectomy. However, several reports have suggested an increased incidence rate of neoplasms in these patients. We aimed to identify the risk of neoplasms in the population undergoing interval appendectomy.

METHODS

This study retrospectively analyzed consecutive cases of appendicitis that were treated surgically between January 2014 and December 2018 at a single tertiary referral center. Patients were divided into 2 groups depending on whether they underwent immediate or interval appendectomy. Demographics and perioperative clinical and pathologic parameters were analyzed.

RESULTS

All 2,013 adults included in the study underwent surgical treatment because of an initial diagnosis of acute appendicitis. Of these, 5.5% (111 of 2,013) underwent interval appendectomy. Appendiceal neoplasm was identified on pathologic analysis in 36 cases (1.8%). The incidence of neoplasm in the interval group was 12.6% (14 of 111), which was significantly higher than that of the immediate group (1.2% [22 of 1,902], P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

The incidence rate of neoplasms was significantly higher in patients undergoing interval appendectomy. These findings should be considered when choosing treatment options after successful nonsurgical management of complicated appendicitis.

Laparoscopic cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy for perforated low-grade appendiceal mucinous neoplasms

Introduction

Cytoreductive surgery with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (CRS/HIPEC) is an established treatment for pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP) from perforated low-grade appendiceal mucinous neoplasms (LAMN II). In a selected group of LAMN II patients without established PMP, CRS/HIPEC can be performed laparoscopically (L-CRS/HIPEC); however the short-term benefits and safety of this approach have yet to be determined. This study aims to determine the short-term outcomes from a series of L-CRS/HIPEC LAMN II patients compared to those who have undergone a similar open operation (O-CRS/HIPEC) for low-volume PMP.

Methods

LAMN II patients undergoing L-CRS/HIPEC at a UK national peritoneal tumour centre were compared to O-CRS/HIPEC patients (peritoneal cancer index ≤ 7). Outcomes of interest included Clavien–Dindo complication grade, operative time, blood transfusions, high dependency unit (HDU) admission, length of hospital stay, and histopathological findings.

Results

55 L-CRS/HIPEC were compared to 29 O-CRS/HIPEC patients (2003–2017). Groups were matched for age, sex, and procedures. Median operative time was 8.8 (IQR 8.1–9.5) h for L-CRS/HIPEC versus 7.3 (IQR 6.7–8) h for O-CRS/HIPEC (Mann–Whitney test p < 0.001). Post-operative HDU admission was 56% versus 97% (OR 0.04 95% CI 0.01–0.34) and median length of stay = 6 (IQR 5–8) versus 10 (IQR 8–11) days (p < 0.001) for L- versus O-CRS/HIPEC. Despite a normal pre-operative CT scan, 13/55 (23.6%) L-CRS/HIPEC patients had acellular mucin and 2/55 (3.5%) had mucin with epithelium present in their specimens. Residual appendix tumour was identified in 2/55 patients (3.6%). Clavien–Dindo Grade 1–4 complications were similar in both groups with no mortality.

Conclusion

L-CRS/HIPEC for LAMN II takes longer; however patients have significantly reduced length of HDU and overall stay, without increased post-operative complications. A significant proportion of LAMN II patients undergoing L-CRS/HIPEC have extra-appendiceal acellular mucin with some cases demonstrating residual cellular epithelium from the LAMN II. The risk of these patients developing PMP without surgery is under current review.

Synchronous primary neuroendocrine and mucinous epithelial tumors present in the same appendix. Case report of 2 patients

BACKGROUND

Although uncommon, neoplasms of the appendix do exist. The two most common types are neuroendocrine tumors and mucinous appendiceal neoplasms.

METHODS

In two patients unusual gross and microscopic findings in an appendectomy specimen were recorded. Special immunocytochemistry studies were used to determine the histologic type of the tumors in the appendix.

RESULTS

The clinical features and histopathology of two patients who had both a neuroendocrine tumor and a low grade appendiceal mucinous neoplasm in the same appendectomy specimen were described. Possibilities for the causation and treatment of this unusual condition were discussed. The incidence of this double malignancy was estimated at 2.5 in 1000 appendectomy specimens.

CONCLUSION

Although extremely unusual, a neuroendocrine tumor and a mucinous appendiceal neoplasm can exist in the same appendix. This condition is reported in two young patients.

Perioperative safety after cytoreductive surgery plus hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy for pseudomyxoma peritonei from appendiceal origin: Experience on 254 patients from a single center

OBJECTIVE

Cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) is a standard treatment for pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP) recommended by Peritoneal Surface Oncology Group International (PSOGI). The study is to analyze the incidence of perioperative serious adverse events (SAEs) of CRS + HIPEC to treat PMP patients, and identify the risk factors, for guiding the prevention of SAEs.

METHODS

This is a retrospective study on the PMP database established at our center. The clinicopathological features, treatment details and SAEs information on the PMP patients are systematically established in this database. The incidence, organ system distribution and severity of perioperative SAEs are analyzed. Univariate and multivariate analyses are performed to identify the independent risk factors.

RESULTS

Among the 272 CRS + HIPEC procedures for 254 PMP patients, there are 93 (34.2%) SAEs. Six systems are involved in the SAEs, including infections (9.6%), digestive system (8.1%), respiratory system (6.3%), cardiovascular system (5.5%), hematological system (2.9%), and urinary system (1.5%), in terms of frequency. In terms of severity, the majority is grade III SAEs (27.9%), followed by grade IV SAEs (4.8%) and grade V SAEs (1.5%). Univariate analysis reveals 4 risk factors for perioperative SAEs: HIPEC regimens (P = 0.020), PCI (P = 0.025), intraoperative red blood cell transfusion volume (P = 0.004), and intraoperative blood loss volume (P = 0.002). Multivariate and logistic regression model analysis identifies only one independent risk factor for perioperative SAEs: intraoperative blood loss volume (P = 0.001, OR = 0.344, 95%CI: 0.182-0.649).

CONCLUSIONS

PMP patients treated by CRS + HIPEC at experienced centers could have acceptable safety. Improving the surgical techniques and developing the integrated hemostasis techniques are essential to reduce intraoperative blood loss and decrease SAEs rate.

Should We Be Doing Cytoreductive Surgery with HIPEC for Signet Ring Cell Appendiceal Adenocarcinoma? A Study from the US HIPEC Collaborative

BACKGROUND

Appendiceal adenocarcinoma with signet ring cells (SCA) is associated with worse overall survival (OS), and it is unclear whether cytoreductive surgery with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (CRS-HIPEC) should be pursued in this patient population. We assessed the prognostic implications of signet ring cells in patients with appendiceal adenocarcinoma and peritoneal carcinomatosis undergoing CRS-HIPEC.

METHODS

The US HIPEC Collaborative, a 12-center, multi-institutional database of patients undergoing CRS-HIPEC, was reviewed for patients with SCA. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed.

RESULTS

Of 514 patients undergoing CRS-HIPEC for appendiceal adenocarcinoma, 125 (24%) had SCA. The SCA and non-SCA groups had similar baseline characteristics. SCA had worse OS compared with non-SCA (32.0 vs 91.4 months, p < 0.001). In univariate analysis for only SCA cases, there was worse OS in patients with poorly differentiated tumors, positive lymph nodes, LVI, PCI > 20, or incomplete cytoreduction (CC-2/3). However, multivariate analysis showed only positive lymph nodes (HR 1.14 [95% CI 1.00-1.31], p = 0.04), poor differentiation (5.60 [1.29-24.39], p = 0.02), and incomplete cytoreduction (4.90 [1.11-12.70], p = 0.03) were independently associated with decreased OS for SCA.

CONCLUSION

While signet cells are a negative prognostic feature, they should not be a contraindication to CRS-HIPEC in patients with well-moderately differentiated tumors with negative lymph nodes, where complete cytoreduction can be achieved.

The impact of HIPEC vs. EPIC for the treatment of mucinous appendiceal carcinoma: a study from the US HIPEC collaborative

INTRODUCTION

Mucinous appendiceal carcinoma is a rare malignancy that commonly spreads to the peritoneum leading to peritoneal metastases. Complete cytoreduction with perioperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy (PIC) is the mainstay of treatment, administered as either hyperthermic intra peritoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) or early post-operative intraperitoneal chemotherapy (EPIC). Our goal was to assess the perioperative and long term survival outcomes associated with these two PIC methods.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients with mucinous appendiceal carcinoma were identified in the US HIPEC Collaborative database from 12 academic institutions. Patient demographics, clinical characteristics, and survival outcomes were compared among patients who underwent HIPEC vs. EPIC with inverse probability weighting (IPW) used for adjustment.

RESULTS

Among 921 patients with mucinous appendiceal carcinoma, 9% underwent EPIC while 91% underwent HIPEC. There was no difference in Grade III-V complications between the two groups (18.5% for HIPEC vs. 15.0% for EPIC, p=.43) though patients who underwent HIPEC had higher rates of readmissions (21.2% vs. 8.8%, p<.01). Additionally, PIC method was not an independent predictor for overall survival (OS) or recurrence-free survival (RFS) after adjustment on multivariable analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

Among patients with mucinous appendiceal carcinoma, both EPIC and HIPEC appear to be associated with similar perioperative and long-term outcomes.

CT diagnosis of non-traumatic gastrointestinal perforation: an emphasis on the causes

Gastrointestinal tract (GI) perforations can occur due to various causes such as trauma, iatrogenic factor, infectious condition, peptic ulcer, inflammatory disease, or a neoplasm. Because GI perforations represent an emergency and life-threatening condition, prompt diagnosis and surgical treatment are required in most cases. However, according to the underlying causes of GI perforations, additional treatment strategies may be needed. Adjuvant chemotherapy or immunotherapy may be required in various GI neoplasms such as adenocarcinoma, lymphoma or gastrointestinal stromal tumor. Inflammatory bowel disease is a chronic disease repeating cycle of intermittent, thus appropriate medical treatment and periodic follow-up are also required. Moreover, vascular intervention may have a role in some cases of mesenteric ischemia associated with mesenteric artery occlusion. Recently, computed tomography (CT) has been the first choice for patients with suspected GI perforations, because CT plays an important role in the accurate assessment of the perforation site, the pathology causing the perforation and the ensuing complications. This review will illustrate characteristic CT findings that differentiate underlying pathologies causing GI perforations to help clinicians decision-making regarding an optimal treatment plan.

Efficacy of modified FOLFOX6 chemotherapy for patients with unresectable pseudomyxoma peritonei

Background

Pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP) is a rare malignancy, and there is insufficient evidence about systemic chemotherapy for this disease.

Methods

We retrospectively evaluated the efficacy and safety of a chemotherapeutic regimen with 5-fluorouracil and oxaliplatin (modified FOLFOX6, mFOLFOX6) for patients with unresectable pseudomyxoma peritonei. Patients who received the therapy between April 2000 and February 2019 at the Department of Medical Oncology, Tohoku University Hospital, were enrolled in this study.

Results

Eight patients were treated with mFOLFOX6. The sites of primary tumor were appendix in six patients, ovary in a patient, and urachus in a patient. Six patients received surgery. Seven patients had histologically high-grade PMP, and one patient had low-grade PMP. The median follow-up duration was 27.2 months. All the patients had non-measurable regions as the targets of tumor response. Non-complete response or non-progressive disease was observed in seven patients, with a disease control rate of 87.5%. The median progression-free survival and overall survival were 13.0 months and 27.9 months, respectively. An obvious reduction in the symptoms was observed in two patients. Five patients experienced decline in the serum tumor markers, CEA or CA19-9. The grade 3/4 toxicity that was observed was grade 4 neutropenia in one patient and grade 3 neutropenia in two patients.

Conclusions

mFOLFOX6 might be an effective and tolerable treatment option for patients with unresectable PMP. To our knowledge, this is the first case series of mFOLFOX6 in patients with unresectable PMP and the first case series of systemic chemotherapy for Asian patients with unresectable PMP.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1007/s10147-019-01592-x) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Establishment of patient-derived xenograft model of peritoneal mucinous carcinomatosis with signet ring cells and in vivo study on the efficacy and toxicity of intraperitoneal injection of 5-fluorouracil

BACKGROUND

Pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP) is an indolent malignancy and insensitive to systemic chemotherapy. The authors established patient-derived xenograft (PDX) model of PMP, and evaluated the efficacy and toxicity of intraperitoneal (i.p.) administration of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) in this model.

METHODS

Human PMP sample was collected to establish subcutaneous (s.c.) and i.p.

MODEL

In vivo study of i.p. injection of 5-FU was performed in i.p. model, with experimental peritoneal cancer index (ePCI) score and pathological examinations for evaluating the efficacy and toxicity.

RESULTS

Both s.c. and i.p. models were constructed. The average passage interval of s.c. model was 44.2 ± 5.2 days, and the i.p. model was characterized by disseminated solid tumor nodules in abdominal-pelvic cavity. Both models were diagnosed as peritoneal mucinous carcinomatosis with signet ring cells (PMCA-S). Immunohistochemical characteristics was similar to human. GNAS mutation was detected in both model and patient. In the in vivo study, average ePCI of treatment group was lower than control and vehicle group (P = .004). Histopathology revealed obvious tumor necrosis in treatment group, and decreased Ki67 positive rate (P = .010). In toxicity study, 5-FU significantly influenced body weight (P = .010) and 1 animal from treatment group died on day 14. Congestive splenomegaly was observed (88.9%). Hepatotoxicity presented as acidophilic body (55.6%), cholestasis (100%), bile canaliculus hyperplasia and obstruction (22.2%), and lymphocyte accumulation (77.8%).

CONCLUSIONS

PDX model of PMCA-S was established successfully, and i.p. 5-FU could inhibit tumor proliferation and progression, with decreased Ki67 positive rate and ePCI score. Hepatotoxicity was the main side effect.

Risk of Appendiceal Neoplasm in Periappendicular Abscess in Patients Treated With Interval Appendectomy vs Follow-up With Magnetic Resonance Imaging: 1-Year Outcomes of the Peri-Appendicitis Acuta Randomized Clinical Trial

Importance

The step after conservative treatment of periappendicular abscess arouses controversy, ranging from recommendations to abandon interval appendectomy based on low recurrence rates of the precipitating diagnosis to performing routine interval appendectomy owing to novel findings of increased neoplasm risk at interval appendectomy. To our knowledge, there are no randomized clinical trials with sufficient patient numbers comparing these treatments.

Objective

To compare interval appendectomy and follow-up with magnetic resonance imaging after initial successful nonoperative treatment of periappendicular abscess.

Design, Setting, and Participants

The Peri-Appendicitis Acuta randomized clinical trial was a multicenter, noninferiority trial conducted in 5 hospitals in Finland. All patients between age 18 and 60 years with periappendicular abscess diagnosed by computed tomography and successful initial nonoperative treatment from January 2013 to April 2016 were included. Data analysis occurred from April 2016 to September 2017.

Interventions

Patients were randomized either to interval appendectomy or follow-up with magnetic resonance imaging; all patients underwent colonoscopy.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary end point was treatment success, defined as an absence of postoperative morbidity in the appendectomy group and appendicitis recurrence in the follow-up group. Secondary predefined end points included neoplasm incidence, inflammatory bowel disease, length of hospital stay, and days of sick leave.

Results

A total of 60 patients were included (36 men [60%]; median [interquartile range] age: interval appendectomy group, 49 [18-60] years; follow-up group, 47 [22-61] years). An interim analysis in April 2016 showed a high rate of neoplasm (10 of 60 [17%]), with all neoplasms in patients older than 40 years. The trial was prematurely terminated owing to ethical concerns. Two more neoplasms were diagnosed after study termination, resulting in an overall neoplasm incidence of 20% (12 of 60). On study termination, the overall morbidity rate of interval appendectomy was 10% (3 of 30), and 10 of the patients in the follow-up group (33%) had undergone appendectomy.

Conclusions and Relevance

The neoplasm rate after periappendicular abscess in this small study population was high, especially in patients older than 40 years. If this considerable rate of neoplasms after periappendicular abscess is validated by future studies, it would argue for routine interval appendectomy in this setting.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03013686.

Incidence and survival trends for appendiceal mucinous adenocarcinoma: an analysis of 3237 patients in the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database

Aim: To characterize the epidemiology of appendiceal mucinous adenocarcinoma. Methods: Prognostic factors were evaluated with univariate and multivariate analyses. The results were used to generate a nomogram. Results: The incidence of appendiceal mucinous adenocarcinoma showed a significant upward trend. Multivariate Cox analysis identified 11 independent prognostic factors. The nomogram was based on independent risk factors that were significant in multivariate Cox analysis, and the concordance-index for overall survival and cancer-specific survival were 0.76 (95% CI: 0.71-0.79) and 0.74 (95% CI: 0.70-0.79), respectively. Conclusion: Advanced age, single relationship status, male sex, black race, the presence of distant and regional lymph node metastases, poor differentiation or lack of differentiation, advanced SEER extent of disease, cancer-directed surgery and chemotherapy were independently associated with prognosis.

Impact of Referral Center Pathology Review on Diagnosis and Management of Patients With Appendiceal Neoplasms

Context.—

Data regarding the clinical impact of subspecialist pathology review of appendiceal neoplasms are limited.

Objective.—

To determine whether pathology review by gastrointestinal pathologists at a tertiary-care referral center resulted in significant changes in the diagnosis and clinical management of appendiceal neoplastic lesions.

Design.—

We conducted a retrospective review of all patients with an initial diagnosis of appendiceal neoplasm referred to a tertiary-care referral center in Ontario, Canada, from 2010–2016. The discordance rate between original and review pathology reports, the nature of discordances, and the impact of any discordance on patient management were recorded.

Results.—

A total of 145 patients with appendiceal lesions were identified (low-grade mucinous appendiceal neoplasm [n = 79], invasive mucinous adenocarcinoma [n = 12], “colorectal type” adenocarcinoma [n = 12], goblet cell carcinoid and adenocarcinomas ex goblet cell carcinoid [n = 24], and other lesions/neoplasms [n = 20]). One or more changes in diagnoses were found in 36 of 145 cases (24.8%), with changes within the same category of interpretation (n = 10), stage (n = 7), grade (n = 6), and categoric interpretation (n = 5) being the most common. In 10 of 36 patients (28%), the diagnostic change led to a significant change in management, including recommendation for additional surveillance, systemic chemotherapy, additional surgery, or discontinuation of surveillance.

Conclusions.—

Subspecialist pathology review of appendiceal neoplastic lesions led to a change in diagnosis in 36 of 145 cases (24.8%), of which nearly 30% (10 of 36 cases) led to a change in clinical management. The overall rate of clinically significant discordances was 7% (10 of 145). Our findings suggest that subspecialist pathology review of appendiceal neoplasms referred to specialized centers is justified.

Value of preoperative ultrasound in evaluating the peritoneal cancer index of pseudomyxoma peritonei

Purpose

This study aimed to explore the value of preoperative ultrasonography (US) in evaluating the peritoneal cancer index (PCI) of pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP).

Methods

An ultrasound examination was performed on 59 patients with PMP before surgery, and the ultrasound PCI was evaluated. The accuracy of ultrasound PCI score was evaluated with the surgical PCI score as the gold standard.

Results

The preoperative ultrasound PCI was compared with the surgical PCI. The Spearman correlation coefficient of the total PCI score was 0.608 (P < 0.05). The difference in the Spearman correlation coefficient between the preoperative ultrasound PCI and the surgical PCI in areas 0–7 was statistically significant. (1) Among them, the total score and the correlation between 0–3 and 6 were higher. (2) Compared with the surgical PCI, overestimation (> 20%) was concentrated mainly in areas 2 and 4–8 for 2 points, and underestimation (< 20%) was concentrated mainly in areas 1, 3, 4, and 8 for 3 points. (3) The sensitivity and specificity of preoperative ultrasound for predicting the presence or absence of lesions were 85.7% and 50.0%, respectively. The sensitivity of LS 1, LS 2, and LS 3 was 31.7%, 48.2%, and 71.0%, respectively, and the specificity was 44.8%, 55.3%, and 58.8%, respectively.

Conclusion

The ultrasound examination can be used to score the preoperative PCI, judge the severity, and predict the prognosis in patients with PMP.

Single-Port Laparoscopic Cytoreductive Surgery with Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy

BACKGROUND Cytoreductive surgery with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy is one of the treatment options in low-grade appendiceal mucinous neoplasm with peritoneal dissemination. The minimal invasive surgery approach was introduced to the field after years of traditional open technique. Multi-port laparoscopic and robotic techniques were reported with good short-term outcomes in very selected patients with low PCI scores. We describe here the first single-port laparoscopic approach of cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy. CASE REPORT We present a case of low-grade appendiceal mucinous neoplasm with peritoneal dissemination, in which single-port laparoscopic approach of cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy was completed through a 5.5-cm incision. A 35-year-old man with no medical illness underwent laparoscopic appendectomy for acute appendicitis 3 months earlier. Postoperative surgical pathology reported a low-grade appendiceal mucinous neoplasm with positive margin. After complete assessment and Tumor Board discussion, the patient was scheduled for cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy. A single gel port access was inserted through a 5.5-cm peri-umbilical incision. The Peritoneal Cancer Index score was 4, and the decision was made to proceed with partial cecectomy, omentectomy, peritonectomy, and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy with the Sugarbaker mitomycin C-based regimen. Postoperative care was carried out following the Enhanced Recovery After Surgery protocol. The patient was discharged on day 3 without any complications. CONCLUSIONS A single-port laparoscopic approach in cytoreductive surgery with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy is safe and feasible in very selected patients, and has the advantage of direct visualization and palpation through the incision to determine more accurate Peritoneal Cancer Index assessment in comparison to other MIS approaches. Nevertheless, additional prospective studies are needed.

[Pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP) secondary to mucinous carcinoma of the ovary: a case study]

Le pseudomyxome péritonéal (PMP) ou l'ascite gélatineuse est une entité rare, décrite pour la première fois par R. Wyerth en 1884. Il correspond à une atteinte péritonéale diffuse, composée d'une ascite mucineuse et d'implants épithéliaux mucineux multifocaux. Cette maladie touche essentiellement les femmes. Son incidence est estimée à 2 cas par un million d'habitants. Le pseudomyxome péritonéal peut rester asymptomatique, découvert lors d'une laparotomie. Le symptôme le plus fréquent est représenté par une distension abdominale associée à des douleurs abdominales diffuses. Le scanner abdominal constitue le moyen diagnostique le plus spécifique. Il met en évidence des signes pathognomoniques de l'ascite gélatineuse. Les tumeurs mucineuses de l'appendice sont la cause la plus fréquente du pseudomyxome péritonéal avec 90% des cas. L'origine ovarienne en constitue une cause très rare. Il existe essentiellement deux types de traitement du PMP: premièrement le « debulking » chirurgical multiple et deuxièmement la chirurgie de cytoréduction avec chimiothérapie intra-péritonéale péri-opératoire consistant en une chimiothérapie hyperthermique intrapéritonéale avec ou sans chimiothérapie intrapéritonéale post opératoire immédiate. Nous rapportons un cas de pseudomyxome péritonéal secondaire à une tumeur mucineuse de l'ovaire gauche.

Trends in peritoneal surface malignancies: evidence from a Czech nationwide population-based study

Background

The aim of this study is to identify the incidence trends of primary and secondary peritoneal surface malignancies in a representative Czech population.

Methods

Data were obtained from patients registered in the Czech National Cancer Registry between 1979 and 2016. The incidence rates were analyzed between 2012 and 2016. To observe the incidence trends, we analyzed the data from two time periods, 1979–2005 and 2006–2016. The analyzed data included age, sex, and the histological types and primary origins of the malignancies. The Cochrane-Armitage test for linear trends was used for verification of the null hypothesis. The significance level established for hypothesis testing was p = 0.05.

Results

Between 2012 and 2016, 230 patients with primary peritoneal tumors were identified and divided into the following groups according to their “International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems, 10th revision” codes: malignant neoplasm of specified parts of the peritoneum (C48.1); malignant neoplasm of the peritoneum, unspecified (C48.2); and malignant neoplasm of overlapping sites of the retroperitoneum and peritoneum (C48.8). Moreover, 549 primary tumors of the appendix (C18.1, encompassing all appendiceal malignancies) and 3137 secondary synchronous peritoneal carcinomatoses of other primary origins were documented. The age-adjusted incidence of primary peritoneal tumors in 2012–2016 was 4.36/year/1,000,000 inhabitants. The age-adjusted incidence of synchronous secondary peritoneal malignancies in 2014–2016 was 99.0/year/1,000,000 inhabitants. The diagnoses of primary peritoneal malignancies followed a stable trend between 1979 and 2016. However, the incidences of primary tumors of the appendix increased by 76.7%.

Conclusions

The data produced in our study ought to clarify the status of peritoneal surface malignancies in the Czech Republic, which can lead to improved planning and development of therapeutic interventions as well as physician training.

Epidemiology of and prognostic factors for appendiceal carcinomas: a retrospective, population-based study

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study is to evaluate the epidemiology of and prognostic factors for appendiceal carcinomas (ACs).

METHODS

All cases of ACs registered in the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database from 1973 to 2014 were retrospectively identified in this study. Age-adjusted incidence and survival rates were calculated.

RESULTS

We analyzed 7170 patients with ACs. We observed a significant increase in the reported annual age-adjusted incidence of ACs from 1973 (0.18/100,000) to 2014 (1.11/100,000). The elevation of the incidence was noted in all the histological types, stages, and grades. The most common histological type varied by race, with the appendiceal mucinous adenocarcinoma (AMA) being the most common in white, Asian/Pacific Islander, and American Indian/Alaskan Native patients, and the appendiceal adenocarcinoma (AA) being the most common in African American patients. In multivariate analysis of patients with all ACs, gender (P < 0.001), year of diagnosis (P < 0.001), age (P < 0.001), race (P < 0.001), tumor grade (P < 0.001), disease stage (P < 0.001), retrieved regional lymph nodes (P < 0.001), type of surgery performed (P = 0.002), and histologic subtype (P < 0.001) were predictors of outcome. Survival time for all ACs increased from the 1973-1993 period to the 1994-2014 period (HR 0.76; 95% CI, 0.69 to 0.85). Additionally, the 5-year survival rates were 88% for malignant carcinoid, 70% for goblet cell carcinoid, 51% for colonic type adenocarcinoma, 59% for mucinous adenocarcinoma, and 25% for signet ring cell type.

CONCLUSIONS

We observed increased reported incidence of ACs and increased survival durations over time, suggesting that clinicians pay more attention to ACs and mastering the characteristic of these tumors.

An incidental finding of low-grade appendiceal mucinous neoplasm during cesarean section: A case report

Low‐grade appendiceal mucinous neoplasms are rare and difficult to diagnose preoperatively because of a lack of characteristic symptoms. A 24‐year‐old female with no symptoms before pregnancy underwent an elective cesarean section at 38 weeks of gestation because of cephalo‐pelvic disproportion. Although no abnormalities were detected in the newborn, uterus, or uterine adnexa, a sausage‐like, swollen appendix was noted. The patient underwent appendectomy. Pathology showed the tumor was a low‐grade appendiceal mucinous neoplasm.

Pseudomyxoma Peritonei-An Unusual Cause of Ascites: A Case Report

INTRODUCTION

Ascites in patients with cardiac disease can be multifactorial. Serum ascitic albumin gradient (SAAG) helps in identifying the etiology of ascites. High SAAG ascites is related to hepatic or posthepatic causes. The causes of low SAAG ascites results include tuberculosis, peritoneal malignancy, or pancreatitis.

CASE PRESENTATION

We report an unusual cause of low SAAG ascites in a 48-year-old woman with valvular heart disease. The patient presented with ascites, and cross-sectional imaging revealed a right iliac fossa mass with omental deposits. The patient was finally diagnosed as having pseudomyxoma peritonei on the basis of clinicoradiopathological features.

DISCUSSION

Pseudomyxoma peritonei is a rare cause of low SAAG ascites. It is characterized by the deposition of mucinous material on the peritoneal surfaces. The most common site of origin is the appendix, although it can arise from other intraabdominal organs as well. Excision of the tumor combined with intraperitoneal chemotherapy is the preferred modality of treatment.

Diagnostic concordance in cases of appendiceal mucinous neoplasia referred to a tertiary referral centre

Accurate diagnosis of appendiceal tumours and any associated peritoneal disease is clinically important but can be difficult. We retrieved the records of patients referred to the Peritoneal Malignancy Institute, Basingstoke, in the years 2016, 2017 and 2018 with a diagnosis of mucinous appendiceal neoplasia and identified 323 patients in which slides were reviewed as part of the referral pathway. Comparing the local report from the referring centre with the central review report, in 57 (18%) we identified a discrepancy. In 39 (12%) the discrepancy was in overall diagnosis, including 22 (7%) in which the local diagnosis was low-grade appendiceal mucinous neoplasm whereas the review diagnosis was reactive mucosal changes, usually due to ruptured diverticulum, with no evidence of neoplasia. Our findings support the practice of central review of histopathology slides by experienced pathologists at tertiary referral centres. They also suggest that improvements in diagnostic criteria are needed.

Mucinous appendiceal neoplasms: classification, imaging, and HIPEC

Recent advances, specifically cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (CRS/HIPEC), offer advantages compared to the traditional therapeutic approach of systemic chemotherapy in the treatment of peritoneal carcinomatosis from mucinous appendiceal neoplasms (MAN). This review provides an up-to-date, comprehensive summary of the histologic classification of MAN, reviews common imaging findings of mucoceles and pseudomyxoma peritonei, and describes the radiologist's role in the multidisciplinary care team in quantifying disease and in helping select patients for definitive surgery.

Survival outcomes of appendiceal mucinous neoplasms by histological type and stage: Analysis of 266 cases in a multicenter collaborative retrospective clinical study

AIM

Appendiceal mucinous neoplasms are rare, and thus the literature is sparse with regard to histological types, staging, and prognosis. In particular, it is unclear how long-term outcome may differ between mucinous adenocarcinomas and other adenocarcinomas. In the present study, we aimed to investigate the histological types and stages of appendiceal neoplasms, and to evaluate the prognostic impacts of these factors in patients with mucinous adenocarcinomas and non-mucinous adenocarcinomas.

METHODS

Patients with appendiceal tumors diagnosed between 2007 and 2016 were retrospectively identified from the databases of 19 institutions in the Clinical Study Group of Osaka University, Colorectal Group.

RESULTS

A total of 266 patients with appendiceal tumors were identified, of whom 130 had pathologically diagnosed adenocarcinomas, including 57 with mucinous adenocarcinomas and 73 with non-mucinous adenocarcinomas. Five-year overall survival (OS) rates were 64.5% for mucinous adenocarcinomas, and 49.0% for non-mucinous adenocarcinomas. OS was significantly shorter among patients with non-mucinous adenocarcinomas compared to mucinous adenocarcinomas. Among patients with mucinous adenocarcinomas, 5-year OS rates were 53.6% for stage 0/I, 82.6% for II/III, and 48.4% for IV. Among patients with non-mucinous adenocarcinomas, 5-year OS rates were 90.9% for stage 0/I, 68.8% for II/III, and 7.1% for IV. Analysis of patients with stage IV disease revealed significantly shorter OS among patients with non-mucinous adenocarcinomas compared to mucinous adenocarcinomas.

CONCLUSION

Our present findings showed a better prognosis in patients with mucinous adenocarcinomas compared to non-mucinous adenocarcinomas. In this setting, Union for International Cancer Control staging was associated with prognosis for non-mucinous adenocarcinomas, but not for mucinous adenocarcinomas.

Pseudomyxoma peritonei induced by low-grade appendiceal mucinous neoplasm accompanied by rectal cancer: a case report and literature review

Background

Pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP) is a disease involving the peritoneum characterized by the production of large quantities of mucinous ascites. PMP has a low incidence, is difficult to diagnose, and has a guarded prognosis. PMP induced by low-grade appendiceal mucinous neoplasm is extremely rare, and PMP accompanied by rectal cancer is even rarer.

Case presentation

We present a unique case of a 70-year-old male with PMP induced by low-grade appendiceal mucinous neoplasm accompanied by rectal cancer. The patient’s clinical, surgical, and histologic data were reviewed. The patient had persistent distended abdominal pain without radiating lower back pain, abdominal distension for 1 month, and no exhaustion or defecation for 4 days. A transabdominal ultrasound-guided biopsy was performed on the first day. The patient received an emergency exploratory laparotomy because of increased abdominal pressure. We performed cytoreductive surgery, enterolysis, intestinal decompression, special tumour treatment and radical resection of rectal carcinoma. The postoperative course was uneventful. The postoperative histological diagnoses were PMP, low-grade appendiceal mucinous neoplasm and rectal medium differentiated adenocarcinoma. At the 1-year follow-up visit, no tumour recurrence was observed by computed tomography (CT). We also performed a literature review.

Conclusions

We should be aware that PMP can rarely be accompanied by rectal cancer, which represents an easily missed diagnosis and increases the difficulty of diagnosis and treatment. Additionally, there are some typical characteristics of PMP with respect to diagnosis and treatment.

Variation in Clinical Application of Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy: A Review

Peritoneal metastasis (PM) originating from gastrointestinal and gynecological malignancies are associated with a poor prognosis and rapid disease progression. Cytoreductive surgery (CRS) with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) is an effective treatment option with curative intent. Hyperthermia enhances the cytotoxicity of chemotherapeutic drugs, thereby killing microscopic tumors and reducing the risk of tumor recurrence. Eight parameters potentially have an impact on the efficacy of HIPEC: the type of drug, drug concentrations, carrier solution, volume of the perfusate, temperature of the perfusate, duration of the treatment, the technique of delivery, and patient selection. In this review, a literature search was performed on PubMed, and a total of 564 articles were screened of which 168 articles were included. Although HIPEC is a successful treatment, there is no standardized method for delivering HIPEC: the choice of parameters is presently largely determined by institutional preferences. We discuss the current choice of the parameters and hypothesize about improvements toward uniform standardization. Quantifying the effect of each parameter separately is necessary to determine the optimal way to perform HIPEC procedures. In vivo, in vitro, in silico, and other experimental studies should shed light on the role of each of the eight parameters.

Appendiceal neoplasm risk associated with complicated acute appendicitis-a population based study

PURPOSE

Appendiceal tumors are rare, but high neoplasm rates have been reported at interval appendectomy after periappendicular abscess. Non-operative management of uncomplicated acute appendicitis has shown promising results. The data on appendiceal tumor incidence and presentation among acute appendicitis patients is limited, especially in patient cohorts differentiating between uncomplicated and complicated acute appendicitis. Objective was to assess appendiceal tumor incidence and tumor association to appendicitis in patients with uncomplicated and complicated acute appendicitis.

METHODS

This nationwide population-based registry study was conducted from 2007 to 2013. The Finnish Cancer Registry and the National Institute for Health Registry were used to combine data on all appendiceal tumors and acute appendicitis diagnosis with medical reports evaluated at eight study hospitals.

RESULTS

Altogether, 840 appendiceal tumors were identified, and out of these, 504 patient reports were reviewed, including 472 patients in this study. Tumor was diagnosed at appendectomy for suspected acute appendicitis in 276 patients (58%). In the whole study, histologically acute appendicitis and tumor were both present in 53% (n = 250), and out of these, 41% (n = 102) were complicated and 59% (n = 148) uncomplicated acute appendicitis. The associated tumor risk was significantly higher in complicated acute appendicitis compared with uncomplicated cases (3.24% vs. 0.87%, p < 0.001). Overall tumor prevalence among acute appendicitis patients was 1.24%.

CONCLUSIONS

Appendiceal tumor prevalence in acute appendicitis was low. Tumor risk was significantly higher in complicated acute appendicitis compared with uncomplicated acute appendicitis. The risk of missed appendiceal tumors related to antibiotic therapy of uncomplicated acute appendicitis is very low.