Understanding the Human Appendix: Functions, Inflammation, and Tumours
The human appendix is a vestigial organ rich in lymphoid tissue, particularly in youth. Although appendicitis predominantly affects young people, it is relatively rare in tropical regions and is often linked to luminal obstruction. The appendix can also present various tumors, including carcinoid tumors and mucinous cystadenomas. Mucinous cystadenocarcinomas may resemble ovarian lesions and, when malignant, have the potential to spread, leading to extensive peritoneal mucinous deposits known as pseudomyxoma peritonei.
Understanding the Human Appendix: Functions, Inflammation, and Tumours
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Presentation Transcript
Appendix • A vestigial organ in the human • Contains prominent lymphoid tissue, particularly in the young
Appendicitis • Acute inflamation • Young people • Relatively rare in tropics • Probably associated with lumenal obstruction
Appendiceal tumours • Carcinoid tumour • Mucinous cystadenoma • Mucinous cystadenocarcinomas The mucinous tumours are similar to ovarian lesions. Malignant ones can spread to cause extensive peritoneal mucinous deposits (“pseudomyxoma peritonei”)
