CT diagnosis and differential diagnosis of appendix mucinous tumor

Objective:To study the CT diagnosis and differential diagnosis of appendix mucinous tumor.Methods:The CT manifestations of 21 cases with appendix mucinous tumor proved by surgery and pathology were retrospectively analyzed,including appendiceal mucocele(12 cases),mucinous cystadenoma(5 cases),and mucinous cystadenocarcinoma(4 cases).Results:Appendiceal mucocele(12 cases) demonstrated oval,segmented or segmented stripe-like cystic mass in the right lower quadrant,with thin cystic wall and no septum,homogeneous in density.The cystic walls were mildly enhanced or not enhanced and no wall nodule,4 cases showed calcification of cystic wall.In 5 cases with appendiceal mucocele at the distal end,2 were found incarcerated fecalith in the proximol end of appendix.Mucinous cystadenoma(5 cases) demonstrated oval or segmented stripe-like cystic mass with thin wall,2 showed multiple septations,1 was observed with cystic wall nodule,and mild enhancement after contrast-enhanced scanning.Mucinous cystadenocarcinoma(4 cases) appeared as cystic-solid mass,with uneven thickness of septation and cystic wall and with moderate or marked enhancement,adhesion of the tumor and surrounding tissues was observed.2 had peritoneal pseudomyxoma,and 1 recurred after surgery.Conclusion:Since CT manifestations of appendix mucinous tumor possess some specific characteristics,along with clinical and laboratory examination,clarified diagnosis can be made and it is of important value for guiding clinical treatment.