Chapter 140 Pseudomyxoma Peritonei
INTRODUCTION
Description: Pseudomyxoma peritonei is the intraperitoneal spread of a mucin-secreting tumor (either a mucinous cystadenoma or carcinoma), which results in recurrent abdominal masses, often massive ascites, and multiple bowel obstructions. Frequently, this tumor may begin in the appendix.
Prevalence: Two of 10,000 laparotomies, 2% to 5% of ovarian mucinous tumors (16% in mucinous cystadenocarcinomas).
ETIOLOGY AND PATHOGENESIS
Causes: Spread, rupture, spill, or leakage of a primary appendiceal tumor or other gastrointestinal or ovarian tumor. Recent histologic studies suggest that in the majority of patients the appendix is the primary tumor source. In rare cases, metaplasia by the cells of the peritoneal surface may account for this tumor.
