KEY FACTS
Terminology
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Mucinous epithelial neoplasm, which can be benign (mucinous cystadenoma), borderline (low malignant potential), or malignant (mucinous cystadenocarcinoma)
Imaging
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Multilocular cystic mass with low-level echoes
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Mucin creates low-level echoes within loculi
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Echogenicity can be variable depending on concentration of mucin
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Papillary projections much less common than in serous tumors
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Solid components increase suspicion for malignancy
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Variable in size but often large; may fill entire pelvis and extend into upper abdomen
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Pseudomyxoma peritonei is potential form of peritoneal spread
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More echogenic than simple ascites
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Amorphous, mucoid material insinuating itself around mesentery, bowel, and solid organs
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Has mass effect with scalloping along solid organs (especially liver) and bowel matted posteriorly (rather than free-floating)
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Top Differential Diagnoses
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Endometrioma
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Serous cystadenoma/carcinoma
Pathology
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Method of spread
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Intraperitoneal dissemination most common (pseudomyxoma peritonei)
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Direct extension to surrounding organs
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Lymphatic spread to paraaortic and pelvic nodes
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Clinical Issues
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Massive tumors can cause weight gain and distended abdomen
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CA-125 not useful for mucinous tumors: False-negative in 30%
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Mucinous tumors 2nd most common epithelial neoplasm
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Gelatinous, insinuating nature of pseudomyxoma peritonei makes complete resection difficult
Scanning Tips
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Mucinous tumors are less commonly malignant than serous tumors