Appendiceal Tumors & Appendicitis

Appendiceal tumors are rare growths that occur in the appendix. They can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous) and can vary significantly in type and behavior.

Types:

• Carcinoid tumors: The most common type, typically slow-growing and often found incidentally during appendectomies.
• Adenocarcinomas: More aggressive and rare, originating from the epithelial cells.
• Mucinous tumors: Produce mucin and can lead to complications like pseudomyxoma peritonei if they spread.
• Other types: Include neuroendocrine tumors and sarcomas.

Symptoms

• Abdominal pain, especially in the right lower quadrant.
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Changes in bowel habits (diarrhea or constipation).
• Unexplained weight loss.
• Occasional bloating or discomfort.

Causes

The exact cause is often unknown, but genetic factors and conditions like familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) may increase risk.

Treatment:

• Surgery: The primary treatment is appendectomy (removal of the appendix). In some cases, additional procedures may be required to remove surrounding tissue or organs if cancer has spread.
• Chemotherapy/Radiation: May be necessary for malignant tumors, depending on the type and stage.
• Regular follow-ups: Are essential for monitoring any recurrence.

Appendicitis

Appendicitis is the inflammation of the appendix, often due to blockage, infection, or foreign body.

Symptoms:

• Sudden onset of abdominal pain, often starting around the navel and then shifting to the lower right abdomen.
• Loss of appetite.
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Fever and chills.
• Constipation or diarrhea.
• Abdominal swelling.

Causes:

• Blockage of the appendix (e.g., stool, foreign body, cancer).
• Infection that spreads to the appendix.
• Rarely, trauma to the abdomen.

Treatment:

• Antibiotics: Initially given to manage infection.
• Appendectomy: Surgical removal of the appendix is the standard treatment. It can be done via open surgery or laparoscopically.
• Monitoring: In some mild cases, antibiotics alone may be sufficient, but surgery is often recommended to prevent recurrence.