Incidental neuroendocrine tumor of the appendiceal base less than20 mm in diameter: is appendectomy enough?

Abstract

The appendixis the second primary site for neuroendocrine tumors. The management of incidentelly discovered neuroendocrine tumor of the appendiceal base less than 20 mm in diameter is still controversal. The aim of this study was to discuss the management of such tumors. Three patients were operated on for acute  appendicitis. Histopathologic examination of surgery specimens revealed neuroendocrine tumors of the appendiceal base less than 20 mm in diameter. Since no one presented with poor prognostic factors, no complementary right hemicolectomy was performed. No recurrence was observed. The existence of  poorprognostic factors at histopathologic examination should indicate complementary right hemicolectomy for incidental neuroendocrine tumor of the appendiceal base less than 20 mm in diameter.

Key words: Neuroendocrine tumors, appendix, treatment