Giant mucocele of the appendix

Abstract

A case of giant mucocele of the appendix is reported in a 50 years old Nigerian male. Presentation was that of sudden onset of pain in the right lower abdomen associated with tenderness in the right iliac fossa region, diagnosed as acute appendicitis. At appendicectomy, a large, pale sausage shaped dilation of the appendix sparing the proximal 2cm was found. Histology confirmed a giant mucocele caused by mucinous hyperplasia. High index of suspicion with appropriate imaging investigations are recommended for accurate pre-operative diagnosis.

Nigerian Journal of Surgical Sciences Vol.16(1) 2006: 39-42