Korean J Obstet Gynecol.  2012 Nov;55(11):887-889. 10.5468/KJOG.2012.55.11.887.

A case of appendiceal mucocele mistaken for ovarian tetaroma

• Kim YD
• Kim SI
• Kim JH
• Jee BC

• KMID: 2274163
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.5468/KJOG.2012.55.11.887

Abstract

Appendiceal mucocele is a rare entity that can present in a variety of ways. The incidence is estimated to be 0.2% to 0.3% of appendectomy specimens. Appendiceal mucocele refers to dilatation of the appendiceal lumen by an abnormal accumulation of mucus. It can be confused radiologically with an ovarian teratoma, which may prove to be a diagnostic challenge. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment is important to avoid unintended rupture and the development of pseudomyxoma peritonei. The diagnosis of mucocele of the appendix as well as other appendiceal neoplasms should be considered by the gynecologist in the differential diagnosis of a right-sided adnexal tumor. We report a case of appendiceal mucocele mistaken for ovarian teratoma in a 59-year-old women.

Keyword

Appendix; Mucocele; Dermoid cyst

MeSH Terms

Appendectomy
Appendiceal Neoplasms
Appendix
Dermoid Cyst
Diagnosis, Differential
Dilatation
Early Diagnosis
Female
Humans
Incidence
Middle Aged
Mucocele
Mucus
Pseudomyxoma Peritonei
Rupture
Teratoma

Figure

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  Fig. 1 Preoperative transvaginal ultrasound image. A cystic mass contained fatty material in right pelvic area (white arrow).

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  Fig. 2 Preoperative pelvic computed tomography image. A 4×3 cm-sized pelvic mass contained fatty material and cystic fluid (white arrow).

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  Fig. 3 Intraoperative pelviscopic picture of appendiceal mucocele.

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