Appendicular Mucocele: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

Maria Guadalupe Nieblas Serrano, Luis Alfredo Lozano Rodriguez

Abstract: An appendiceal mucocele is a rare condition characterized by abnormal enlargement of the appendix due to mucin accumulation, typically resulting from lumen obstruction. Although often asymptomatic, it can present with nonspecific symptoms such as abdominal pain, a palpable mass in the right lower quadrant, or signs mimicking appendicitis. Diagnosis relies on imaging modalities, including ultrasound, CT, or MRI, and it is sometimes identified incidentally during surgery. Treatment depends on the type and size of the mucocele, ranging from appendectomy for benign cases to more extensive surgical procedures for malignant forms. Early diagnosis and timely surgical intervention are critical to prevent complications such as rupture or pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP).

Keywords: Complications, appendectomy, diagnosis, mucin, appendiceal mucocele