Timely Intervention Leads to Successful Treatment of a Giant Appendiceal Mucinous Tumor A patient with an appendiceal mucinous tumor measuring up to 19 cm in diameter has just undergone successful surgery performed by doctors at Phan Chau Trinh University Hospital.
Ms. N.T.Đ (51 years old) visited Phan Chau Trinh University Hospital with persistent dull pain in the right lower abdomen, accompanied by a mild fever. She had previously been diagnosed with an appendiceal abscess at other medical facilities and had undergone drainage surgery. Believing it to be a common recurrence, she delayed seeking medical attention.
However, through clinical examination and contrast-enhanced CT imaging, the medical team discovered a massive appendiceal mucinous tumor, measuring up to 19 cm in size.
After thorough consultation, surgeons and anesthesiologists performed a laparoscopic right hemicolectomy, along with lymph node dissection and reconstruction of intestinal continuity. This was a highly complex surgery requiring advanced skills, close coordination, and decisive action from the entire surgical team.
Radiological image showing a giant appendiceal mucinous tumor
The cut surface revealed a mucinous, adhesive structure with dense mucin content, showing extensive spread and infiltration into the surrounding tissue
Histopathological results confirmed the tumor as a moderately differentiated adenocarcinoma, invading the full thickness of the colonic wall but fortunately without lymph node metastasis. After nearly five days post-surgery, the patient has recovered well, been discharged from the hospital, and is scheduled for further monitoring and specialized treatment in the near future.
Appendiceal mucinous tumors are rare, accounting for only about 0.5–0.7% of all appendectomy cases, and they often present without clear symptoms. If left undetected and untreated, the condition can silently progress into cancer.
According to medical experts, symptoms such as persistent dull abdominal pain, prolonged digestive disturbances, or the presence of an unusual abdominal mass should not be overlooked. These may be warning signs of serious conditions, including cancer.
Regular health check-ups and early screening — especially through techniques like colonoscopy — are essential for detecting abnormalities at an early stage. Early detection plays a key role in protecting your health and that of your loved ones.
Colonoscopy services and gastrointestinal cancer screening are currently available at Phan Chau Trinh University Hospital, supported by a team of experienced doctors and modern medical equipment.