J Korean Radiol Soc.  1995 Nov;33(5):757-761.

CT Features of Appendiceal Mucocele

• Shinn KS
• Byun JY
• Jung JI
• Park YH
• Yu WJ
• Lee HG

Abstract

PURPOSE
To evaluate the usefulness of CT features of appendiceal mucocele in the diagnosis and evaluation of complications.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
We retrospectively reviewed CT findings and compared with operative findings in 7 cases of pathologically proven appendiceal mucocele. CT findings such as location and extent of the lesion, Issue density, thickness or calcification of the wall, presence of adjacent inflammatory infiltration, and visualization of normal vermiform appendix were analyzed.
RESULTS
Appendiceal mucocele was found as homogeneous low density cystic mass adjacent to the cecum, which has no surrounding inflammatory infiltration except in one case of perforation and one case of intussusception. Mean CT number measured in 4 cases was 21 Hounsfield unit. Thin curvilinear calcifications were noted along the cystic wall in 2 cases. Normal vermiform appendix couldn't be demonstrated in all cases.
CONCLUSION
Appendiceal mucocele is characterized by homogeneously low density and thin walled cystic tumor adjacent to cecum without surrounding inflammatory infiltration, and absence of normal vermiform appendix on CT. Therefore, CT is valuable in preventing operative complications of appendiceal mucocele.

MeSH Terms

Appendix
Cecum
Diagnosis
Intussusception
Mucocele*
Retrospective Studies