Unusual histopathological findings in appendectomy specimens: A retrospective analysis and literature review

Through Different Lenses: A Retrospective Analysis of the Agreement Between Laparoscopic and Histopathological Evaluations of the Appendix

BACKGROUND

Appendicectomy is the most frequently performed emergency general surgical procedure. Previous research has highlighted discrepancies between initial intraoperative laparoscopic diagnoses and subsequent histopathology reports following appendicectomy. In the United Kingdom (UK), routine histopathological examination is the established practice, ensuring precise diagnosis of appendiceal specimens. This retrospective analysis aims to compare intraoperative laparoscopic assessments of the appendix with corresponding histopathology findings.

METHODOLOGY

We conducted a retrospective analysis of 418 consecutive emergency laparoscopic appendectomies at Peterborough City Hospital in the UK between April 2018 and June 2019 for suspected appendicitis. Intraoperative findings were compared with histopathological examination outcomes using kappa statistics.

RESULTS

Of the 418 appendectomies analysed, we found a substantial agreement between surgeons and pathologists (kappa = 0.71, P < 0.001) in detecting overall abnormalities of appendices. This agreement was also high for detecting inflamed appendices (kappa = 0.72, P < 0.001). However, of the six neoplastic lesions confirmed in the pathologists' final report, only two were suspected during laparoscopy.

CONCLUSIONS

While laparoscopic assessments of the appendix demonstrate a statistically significant and improved agreement with histopathological findings in detecting abnormal and inflamed appendices, the ability of surgeons to identify neoplasia appears suboptimal based on our small sample of neoplasia cases. The data strongly support the continued practice of routine histopathological examination following appendicectomy due to its crucial role in avoiding missed diagnoses and ensuring better patient outcomes.

Pathological Assessment of the Appendix in Appendectomies Performed in Children

BACKGROUND

Acute appendicitis is known as the most common diagnosis of acute abdomen leading to surgery. Therefore, timely diagnosis is of special importance. This study was conducted with the aim of pathological assessment of the appendix in appendectomies performed in children to determine the rate of negative appendectomies and the predictors of negative appendectomy and to evaluate the paraclinical tools used in the diagnosis of acute appendicitis.

METHODS

This is a cross-sectional descriptive study. All children who underwent appendectomy at Shahid Motahari Hospital in Urmia from March 2021 to March 2022 were examined. The required data including demographic, paraclinical, and final pathology characteristics were collected and recorded. The investigated cases were classified into positive and negative appendectomy categories for comparison.

RESULTS

Among 234 pathology samples of the appendix, 22 cases were related to accidental appendectomy. In addition, 11.3% of cases were negative appendectomy and 88.7% were positive appendectomy. The age range of 8 to 14 years and male gender were associated with a lower negative appendectomy rate (both P<0.001). Inflammatory (49.5%) and gangrenous appendicitis (30.2%) were the most commonly reported histopathologies. Sonography had a sensitivity of 84%, a specificity of 79%, and an overall diagnostic accuracy of 83%.

CONCLUSION

A relatively significant number of accidental and negative appendectomies are performed. More careful investigation and the use of expectant and medical treatment instead of surgery, especially in females and young children, can be effective in improving diagnostic accuracy and preventing negative appendectomies.

Intestinal Helminths Infections as Infrequent Cause of Emergency Abdominal Surgery: A Retrospective Study in a University Hospital over 20 Years

INTRODUCTION

All organs of any organism can be affected by helminths. They can be seen in a broad spectrum, from simple infestations to extensive, life-threatening involvement. Symptomatology is usually of chronic latent course. However, sometimes the presentation is acute and requires urgent surgical intervention.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We conducted a retrospective observational prospective recruitment study of patients undergoing emergency surgery for helminth infection from January 2000 to December 2019 at a university hospital. Sociodemographic and analytical variables, variables related to the clinical process, and the diagnostic test were analysed. Variables related to the surgical procedure and postoperative complications were also analysed.

RESULTS

A total of 36 patients required emergency surgery for their helminth infection, which represented 0.26% of emergency abdominal surgeries. The mean age was 34.91 ± 21.5 years, with a predominance of men (69.4%). Most patients presented with pain in the right iliac fossa (69.4%), followed by symptoms compatible with intestinal obstruction (19.4%). The most frequent surgical interventions were appendectomy (38.9%) followed bowel resection (33.3%) and ileocecal resection (11.1%). Enterobious vermicularis and Anisakis simplex both together accounted for 75% of the sample. Statistically significant differences were identified in age (p < 0.001), diagnostic test performed (p = 0.032), intraoperative clinical diagnosis (p = 0.005) and surgical treatment received (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

The frequency of emergency surgeries for intestinal helminth parasitism is decreasing. However, the majority of these are E. vermicularis and Anisakis simplex, which have distinctly different clinical presentations. Identification and recognition by physicians continue to be necessary for further postoperative management and possible complications.

Neurogenic appendicopathy: A rare differential diagnosis of acute appendicitis

AIM OF THE STUDY

In histologically non-inflamed but clinically suspect appendices, changes described as neurogenic appendicopathy with fibrous or fibrolipomatous obliterations can be observed. The purpose of this study was to analyse the incidence of these entities of the appendix in a longitudinal patient cohort.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This is a retrospective single-centre study of 457 patients undergoing laparoscopic appendectomy from 2017 to 2020 due to suspected acute appendicitis.

RESULTS

In 72 patients (15.8%) with clinically suspected acute appendicitis, the appendix showed no distinct signs of acute inflammation during the procedure. In 43 patients, histological analysis revealed neurogenic appendicopathy or fibrous and fibrolipomatous obliteration. Female gender (P=0.088), younger age (P<0.0001), longer pain duration (P<0.0001) and repetitive pain episodes were more frequent in these patients than in those with acute appendicitis. Inflammation markers were also decreased in the group of patients with neurogenic appendicopathy (leukocytes 9.8±3.5 vs. 13.0±4.5 G/L and C-reactive protein 38.7±60.7 vs. 59.4±70.5mg/L).

CONCLUSION

Neurogenic appendicopathy with fibrous/fibrolipomatous obliteration is a differential diagnosis of acute appendicitis that can only be confirmed by pathology. Female gender, young age, prolonged duration with repetitive episodes of pain, and relatively low inflammatory markers are evocative of this diagnosis.

Benign or by Chance: A Case Report on Incidental Appendectomy Revealing a Neuroendocrine Tumor During Traumatic Exploratory Laparotomy

Incidental appendectomies (IAs) are often performed in laparotomies to prevent future complications caused by the buildup of scar tissue. Although neoplastic findings are rare, all appendectomy specimens should be sent for histopathological analysis. We present the case of a 38-year-old man found to have an appendiceal neuroendocrine tumor (NET) after receiving an IA secondary to a traumatic rectal perforation requiring exploratory laparotomy. Well-differentiated NETs isolated to the appendix have an excellent prognosis. Appendectomies are considered curative for NETs smaller than 2 cm that have not metastasized beyond the appendix. Appendiceal NETs are capable of secreting vasoactive substances and, therefore, causing carcinoid syndrome. However, the progression to carcinoid syndrome generally coincides with metastasis to the liver, indicating a poor prognosis. While histopathological analysis of appendectomy specimens rarely yields atypical findings, this analysis is crucial to ensure that the proper treatment is selected based on tumor progression in an appendectomy specimen staining positive for somatotropin and chromogranin.

Incidental appendiceal neoplasms: Single-centre results

BACKGROUND

Histopathological examination of appendectomy specimens may reveal malignancies. Based on these results, either appendectomy is sufficient or sometimes a further treatment protocol can be needed. In this study, malignancy-diagnosed cases on appendectomy specimen were examined.

METHODS

Patients who underwent appendectomy between January 2013 and December 2018 with a pre-diagnosis of acute appendicitis were evaluated retrospectively and those cases with malignancy were included in the study. Patients' age, sex, tumor type, tumor diameter, tumor grade, tumor localization, surgical margin, Ki-67 index, state of lymphovascular invasion, state of peri-neural invasion, and follow-up period duration were recorded.

RESULTS

On examination of 2336 appendectomy specimens, 16 patients (0.7%) were found to have neuroendocrine tumors (NET), 11 patients (0.5%) were found to have low-grade mucinous neoplasm (LAMN), and five patients (0.2%) were found to have primary appendix carcinomas. Appendix tumors usually present with acute appendicitis symptoms. Despite re-operation with right hemicolectomy (RHC) being required in the treatment of adenocarcinoma cases, appendectomy provides adequate treatment in most cases with NET and LAMN. With these tumors, which usually have a benign prognosis, it is important to perform the necessary screening in the postoperative period and not to interrupt follow-up.

The Histopathological Findings in Appendectomy Specimens in an Iranian Population

BACKGROUND

Appendicitis is one of the most common causes of acute abdominal surgeries. The importance of parasitic etiologies in the pathogenesis of appendicitis is not well known in appendectomy specimens on a large scale in southwestern Iran. The current study aimed to retrospectively assess the demographic data and histopathological records of appendicitis in a 28-year period in Fars province, southwestern Iran.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Histopathological records of 13,013 patients who had undergone surgeries for appendicitis at Dr. Ali Shariati Hospital, affiliated with the Fasa University of Medical Sciences from December 1993 to January 2021 were reviewed and data concerning the patients' demographic data and histopathological records were retrieved from each record. More than 6800 archived microscopic glass slides were also reviewed.

RESULTS

From a total of 13,013 histopathological records of surgical excisions of appendicitis that were reviewed over a 28-year period, 8,189 (62.9%) were male and 4,842 (37.1%) were female. Patients' age ranged from 2 to 98 years, with a mean age of 24.68±19.87 years. The most common inflammatory changes were 5,687 (43.7%), 1,228 (9.4%), 670 (5.1%), 522 (4%), and 363 (2.8%) cases of acute appendicitis, suppurative appendicitis, early acute appendicitis, gangrenous appendicitis, and perforated appendicitis respectively. Microscopically, no viral inclusions, fungal elements, and histopathologic findings of bacterial causes were found. Parasitic infections such as helminthiasis were detected in 74 (0.6%) cases aged from 6 to 63. Enterobiasis (Syn. oxyuriasis, pinworm infection) accounted for 73 (98.6%) of the 74 helminthiases, while ascariasis accounted for 1 (1.4%). Out of 74 cases, 29 (39.2%) showed evidence of appendicitis.

CONCLUSION

The results suggest that although parasitic agents are minor causes of appendicitis, these agents should be kept in mind during differential diagnosis. However, whether every parasitic infection leads to appendicitis is controversial.

Utilization of telemedicine to provide post-discharge care: A comparison of pre-pandemic vs. pandemic care

BACKGROUND

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, post-discharge virtual visits transitioned from a novel intervention to standard practice. Our aim was to evaluate participation in and outcomes of virtual post-discharge visits in the early-pandemic timeframe.

METHODS

Pandemic cohort patients were compared to historical patients. Patient demographics, clinical information, and post-discharge 30-day hospital encounters were compared between groups.

RESULTS

The historical cohort included 563 patients and the pandemic cohort had 823 patients. There was no difference in 30-day hospital encounters between patients who completed a video vs. telephone visit in the pandemic cohort (3.8% vs. 7.6%, p = 0.11). There was a lower 30-day hospital encounter rate in pandemic video and telephone visits compared to similar historical sub-groups.

CONCLUSION

Expansion of virtual post-discharge visits to include all patients and telephone calls did not negatively impact rates of 30-day post-discharge hospital encounters. Offering telehealth options for post-discharge follow-up does not appear to have negative impact on healthcare utilization.

Oncological Safety and Potential Cost Savings of Routine vs Selective Histopathological Examination After Appendectomy: Results of the Multicenter, Prospective, Cross-Sectional FANCY Study

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the oncological safety and potential cost savings of selective histopathological examination after appendectomy.

BACKGROUND

The necessity of routine histopathological examination after appendectomy has been questioned, but prospective studies investigating the safety of a selective policy are lacking.

METHODS

In this multicenter, prospective, cross-sectional study, inspection and palpation of the (meso)appendix was performed by the surgeon in patients with suspected appendicitis. The surgeon's opinion on additional value of histopathological examination was reported before sending all specimens to the pathologist. Main outcomes were the number of hypothetically missed appendiceal neoplasms with clinical consequences benefiting the patient (upper limit two-sided 95% confidence interval below 3:1000 considered oncologically safe) and potential cost savings after selective histopathological examination.

RESULTS

Seven thousand three hundred thirty-nine patients were included. After a selective policy, 4966/7339 (67.7%) specimens would have been refrained from histopathological examination. Appendiceal neoplasms with clinical consequences would have been missed in 22/4966 patients. In 5/22, residual disease was completely resected during additional surgery. Hence, an appendiceal neoplasm with clinical consequences benefiting the patient would have been missed in 1.01:1000 patients (upper limit 95% confidence interval 1.61:1000). In contrast, twice as many patients (10/22) would not have been exposed to potential harm due to re-resections without clear benefit, whereas consequences were neither beneficial nor harmful in the remaining seven. Estimated cost savings established by replacing routine for selective histopathological examination were €725,400 per 10,000 patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Selective histopathological examination after appendectomy for suspected appendicitis is oncologically safe and will likely result in a reduction of pathologists' workload, less costs, and fewer re-resections without clear benefit.

Outcome and quality of life in obese patients underwent laparoscopic vs. open appendectomy

Background

Although obesity is a popular reason for choosing laparoscopic appendectomy (LA) versus open appendectomy (OA), however, the question of whether there is a difference remains. Our goal is to investigate if there is a difference between OA and LA in obese patients.

Methods

Fifty-eight obese patients diagnosed with acute appendicitis according to ALVARDO score at department of surgery at Suez Canal university hospitals from March 2020 till August 2021 were included. The study participants were assigned in two groups LA and OA. This study aimed to comparing between LA and OA regarding intraoperative complications, length of hospital stays, post -operative pain, and rate of post-operative complications. Meanwhile, using SF-36 scoring questionnaire, the quality of life was compared between both groups.

Results

A total of 58 patients were included in the present study (LG = 29 patients and OG = 29 patients). The early post-operative complications (within 30 days after surgery) were significantly lower in the LA group (5 patients out of 29) than the OA (11 patients out of 29). Additionally, lower incidence of complications was noticed in the LA group (2 out of 29 patients) compared to OA (6 patients out of 29) beyond 30 days after operation. Patients with laparoscopic surgery had statistically significant higher overall quality of life scores (SF-36) (72 ± 32) compared to open surgery patients (66 ± 35) 2 weeks after operation.

Conclusion

The laparoscopic procedure was associated with lower incidence of post operative complications. However, open appendectomy was superior for a shorter operative time. Laparoscopic approach is not only used for therapeutic purposes, but also it has a diagnostic role.

Prognostic impact of number of examined lymph nodes on survival of patients with appendiceal neuroendocrine tumors

BACKGROUND

The prognosis of patients with appendiceal neuroendocrine tumors (ANETs) is related to lymph node (LN) metastasis and other factors. However, it is unclear how the number of examined LNs (ELNs) impact on survival.

AIM

To determine the factors affecting the cancer-specific survival (CSS) of patients with ANET and to evaluate the impact of the number of ELNs on survival.

METHODS

A total of 4583 ANET patients were analyzed in the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database. Univariate survival analysis was used to identify factors related to survival and the optimal number of ELNs and lymph node ratio (LNR) were determined by the Kaplan–Meier method. The survival difference was determined by CSS.

RESULTS

Except for sex, the other factors, such as age, year, race, grade, histological type, stage, tumor size, ELNs, LNR, and surgery type, were associated with prognosis. The 3-, 5-, and 10-year CSS rates of ANET patients were 91.2%, 87.5, and 81.7%, respectively (median follow-up period of 31 mo and range of 0-499 mo). There was no survival difference between the two surgery types, namely, local resection and colectomy or greater, in both stratifications of tumor size ≥ 2 cm (P = 0.523) and < 2 cm (P = 0.068). In contrast to patients with a tumor size < 2 cm, those with a tumor size ≥ 2 cm were more likely to have LN metastasis (χ² = 378.16, P < 0.001). The optimal number of ELNs was more than 11, 7, and 18 for all patients, node-negative patients, and node-positive patients, respectively. CSS rates of patients with a larger number of ELNs were significantly improved (≤ 10 vs ≥ 11, χ² = 20.303, P < 0.001; ≤ 6 vs ≥ 7, χ² = 11.569, P < 0.001; ≤ 17 vs ≥ 18, χ² = 21.990, P < 0.001; respectively). ANET patients with an LNR value ≤ 0.16 were more likely to have better survival than those with values of 0.17-0.48 (χ² = 48.243, P < 0.001) and 0.49-1 (χ² = 168.485, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

ANET ≥ 2 cm are more likely to develop LN metastasis. At least 11 ELNs are required to better evaluate the prognosis. For patients with positive LN metastasis, 18 or more LNs need to be detected and lower LNR values (LNR ≤ 0.16) indicate a better survival prognosis.

Parasites in surgically removed appendices as a neglected public health concern: a systematic review and meta-analysis

The role of various parasitic infections in the occurrence of appendicitis is illustrated through cases recorded all over the world. The purpose of the current study was to estimate the global prevalence of parasite infestation (other than E. vermicularis) in appendectomy specimens.In the setting of the PRISMA guidelines, multiple databases (Science Direct, Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, and Google Scholar) were explored in articles published until 28 September 2020. Totally, 62 studies (106 datasets) with 77, 619 participants were included in the analysis.The pooled prevalence of parasites in appendectomy samples was as follows; 0.012% (95% CI; 0.004-0.025) for Ascaris lumbricoides, 0.004% (95% CI; 0.001-0.009) for Trichuris trichiura, 0.025% (95% CI; 0.007-0.052) for Schistosoma mansoni, 0.002% (95% CI; 0.001-0.005) for Taenia spp., 0.061% (95% CI; 0.020-0.122) for Entamoeba histolytica and 0.034% (95% CI; 0.018-0.056) for Giardia lamblia.Our results demonstrated that the risk of appendicitis may increase in the presence of helminth and protozoan infections. As such, the most cases of parasites in appendectomy specimens were reported in developing countries. Regular screening plans for diagnosis, treatment and prevention are needed for prevention of parasitic infection as well as parasitic associated appendicitis, especially in endemic regions of the world.

Neurogenic Appendicitis: A Reappraisal of the Clinicopathological Features and Pathogenesis

In 1921; Masson and Maresch first coined the term “neurogenic appendicitis (NA)” to describe “neuroma-like” lesions in the appendix. To date, our knowledge about NA is limited; therefore, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of the literature (1921 to 2020) to examine the clinicopathological features of NA. We also addressed the pathophysiology of acute abdominal pain and fibrosis in this entity. We performed a meta-analysis study by searching the PubMed database, using several keywords, such as: “appendix,” “neurogenic,” “obliterative,” “neuroma,” “fibrous obliteration,” “appendicopathy,” and “appendicitis.” Our study revealed that patients with NA usually present clinically with features of acute appendicitis, bud2t they have grossly unremarkable appendices. Histologically, the central appendiceal neuroma was the most common histological variant of NA, followed by the submucosal and intramucosal variants. To conclude, NA represents a form of neuroinflammation. The possibility of NA should be considered in patients with clinical features of acute appendicitis who intraoperatively show a grossly unremarkable appendix. Neuroinflammation and neuropeptides play roles in the development of pain and fibrosis in NA.

A Tooth Decaying in the Appendix: An Unusual Cause of Appendicitis

Appendicitis is a very common indication for surgery, although in recent years uncomplicated cases have often been managed with antibiotics. In this case, we discuss a patient who presented to the emergency department with a case of seemingly uncomplicated acute appendicitis. Physical exam, history, and imaging indicated that this was due to an ingested foreign body, specifically a dental crown, that had impacted the appendix. In cases of ingested foreign bodies, antibiotics are not an appropriate treatment for appendicitis and all cases should be treated surgically if the patient will tolerate surgery. A thorough history and physical exam, as well as imaging when indicated, can assist in the assessment of such patients.

Incidental neuroendocrine tumor of a complete subserosal appendix: an unusual presentation of a rare anatomical variation. A case report and review of literature

Background

Appendix’ anatomical variations are a rare occurrence which can mislead diagnosis and delay appropriate treatment.

Case presentation

We present a 9-year-old female patient that came with a clinical picture compatible with acute appendicitis. However, a cecal mass was identified instead of an inflamed appendix during surgery. Therapeutic decisions were extremely challenging due to clinical deterioration and an uncertain etiology. Only the histopathology report revealed the presence of a complete subserosal appendix which was responsible for the entire symptomatology. Here, we review all case reports regarding intramural, intracecal or subserosal appendixes. A discussion of the general approach to this specific case and the importance of consensual diagnostic criteria for these specimens are also presented. At last, an incidental finding is exposed and final treatment options are discussed given the overall presentation.

Conclusions

Considering these variants would guide physicians towards a more accurate approach to similar clinical pictures and hence an improved long-term prognosis.

Unusual histopathological findings in appendectomy specimens with clinical diagnosis of acute appendicitis: A retrospective cohort analysis

INTRODUCTION

While appendicitis is considered one of most common acute surgical conditions, several studies have reported abnormal histopathological findings in appendectomy specimens; however, sending all appendices to histopathology is not yet routinely done.Here we report many unusual findings. Those unusual findings played a role not only in confirming acute appendicitis as a cause of the presentation in some cases but also discovering etiologies that mimic it with great impact on its management.

METHODS

Between January 2011 and December 2017, a total of 1510 patients were operated with appendectomy for a primary diagnosis of acute appendicitis. Among them, a total of 72 patients had incidental histopathologic findings in association with acute appendicitis or other pathologies instead of acute appendicitis. A retrospective analysis for those 72 patients was performed with all data being retrieved from the electronic health record system.

RESULTS

Patients ages ranged between 4 and 71 years with a mean age equal to 23.1 years (SD = 14.2). Majority of patients were women (n = 52; 72.2%). Sixty of the seventy-two cases were seen in patients with negative appendectomies (n = 333) with an overall rate of 18% among this group of patients. The remaining 12 patients had additional findings in histopathology specimens beside acute appendicitis (n = 1131) with an overall rate of 1%. The most commonly reported pathologies were serositis, ovarian cysts, and Enterobius vermicularis in descending frequency.

CONCLUSION

Identification of unusual histopathological findings during microscopic examination of resected appendices is more common in female patients and in patients with negative appendectomy. histopathologic assessment of specimens will allow detection of congenital, infectious or malignant pathologies that mimic acute appendicitis clinically even in the absence appendicitis microscopically.

Unexpected diagnosis of acute lymphoblastic leukemia in a 2-year-old with acute appendicitis - Case report

INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE

Appendicitis is an extremely common surgical problem, especially in the pediatric population. However, leukemic infiltration of the appendix is rare and even more so is having acute appendicitis as the initial manifestation.

CASE PRESENTATION

The patient is a 2-year-old female with multiple febrile illnesses since birth, who presented to the emergency department with a 3-day history of abdominal pain, fever, and decreased appetite. Ultrasound of her right lower quadrant was consistent with acute appendicitis. A laparoscopic appendectomy was performed successfully without complication. However, pathological examination of the specimen revealed an appendix with partial involvement of B-lymphoblastic lymphoma/leukemia in a background of lymphoid hyperplasia. This prompted referral to a pediatric hematologist/oncologist. Further workup revealed abnormal immature cells on peripheral blood flow cytometry. Bone marrow biopsy confirmed a diagnosis of B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia.

CLINICAL DISCUSSION

Though acute appendicitis is very common and management is well documented, it is rare for pathological examination to uncover leukemia as an underlying etiology and to have acute appendicitis as the initial manifestation of hematologic malignancy. To our knowledge, very few similar events have occurred and been documented in the medical literature.

CONCLUSION

Physicians and surgeons should be aware that, though quite rare, leukemic infiltration of the appendix can occur and should be considered in the differential diagnosis of acute appendicitis. Notably, pathologic examination of the appendix may be particularly informative. Diligent follow-up of abnormal pathology is crucial in cases suggestive of underlying hematologic malignancy.

Tuberculous appendicitis: A review of reported cases over the past 10 years

BACKGROUND

Tuberculous appendicitis is a rare extrapulmonary manifestation of tuberculosis without clear summarization or consensus on its management.

DATA SOURCES

Case reports were gathered from several online literature databases by searching terms "tuberculosis", "tuberculous", and "appendicitis".Report eligibility criteria: Cases of appendicitis due to M. tuberculosis identified on operative histology. Exclusion criteria: appendicitis caused by a mycobacterium other than M. tuberculosis, and appendiceal tuberculosis identified incidentally during procedures for other reasons.

RESULTS

Thirty four patients were identified. Twenty five patients presented with acute right lower quadrant abdominal pain. Eleven patients described chronic symptoms of tuberculosis (cough, night sweats, or weakness/fatigue). Four patients had a known diagnosis of TB. Seven of 24 cases reported peri-operative chest imaging which demonstrated pulmonary lesions. AFB were present in tissue or fluid samples of 6 patients, and negative in 15 patients. All patients underwent pharmacotherapy on a WHO-recommended anti-tuberculous treatment (ATT) with RIPE or an alternative. The average duration of treatment was 7.2 ± 1.7 months.

LIMITATIONS

Data was gathered from case reports without complete uniformity in diagnostic work-up. The potential for larger scale study is limited due to disease rarity.

CONCLUSIONS

Tuberculous appendicitis cannot be diagnosed prior to histologic evaluation. Several data points may suggest the disease on a clinician's differential diagnosis if they present with a combination of the following: born in a country with endemic tuberculosis; chronic cough, weakness/fatigue, or nausea prior to onset of abdominal pain; pulmonary lesions on chest X-ray; white studding of the mesentery or peritoneum in a young patient; positive AFB stain of abdominal fluid or peritoneal tissue.

Rising incidence of appendiceal neoplasms over time: Does pathological handling of appendectomy specimens play a role?

BACKGROUND

Appendectomy is the most common emergent surgical procedure. Primary appendiceal neoplasms are rare entities that are usually detected incidentally in less than 2% of all appendectomies. The increase in the incidence rates of appendiceal neoplasms over time raises the question whether there is an actual change in the disease occurrence or is it a matter of increased recognition and reporting of what would have been previously missed and undiagnosed.

OBJECTIVES

In our study, we aimed to review the archived tissue specimens of patients who were diagnosed with appendiceal neoplasms during the past decade at our institution and compare our clinical experience with published data to identify possible reasons that contribute to the increase in incidence rates of such neoplasms over the past few years.

METHODS

Using a pathological database of surgical specimens from patients who underwent appendectomies between January 01, 2010 and September 30, 2020 at a large academic medical center, a single-center retrospective cohort analysis was performed, and medical charts of patients were reviewed.

RESULTS

Of the total 1568 patients included, 102 (6.5%) had appendiceal neoplasms divided between primary (79.4%) and secondary/metastatic (20.6%) neoplasms. Annual incidence of appendiceal neoplasms over the past 10 years in our institution demonstrated an increasing trend from 5.6% in 2010 to 12.7% in 2020, which we hypothesize might be attributed to submitting more representative sections of the appendix for pathological examination than we had previously. Our results also showed that 2.8% of patients initially presenting with a typical clinical picture of acute appendicitis had appendiceal neoplasms as a truly incidental finding, while 20.3% of patients who underwent elective appendectomies for a suspicious appendiceal mass were found to be neoplastic. Interestingly, among the 80 cases of epithelial neoplasms, more non-carcinoid neoplasms were detected than carcinoid tumors.

CONCLUSION

Based on our results and what has been published recently, we confirm an additional increase in incidental appendiceal neoplasms found in appendectomies performed for a clinical picture of acute appendicitis, which may be related to more thorough specimen assessment. Whether this is clinically impactful remains to be determined. However, these data support a modification in the way appendectomy specimens are handled in pathology labs post-operatively.

A retrospective analysis and literature review of neoplastic appendiceal mucinous lesions

Background

At present, the term mucocele is outdated, and mucinous appendiceal neoplasm is preferred. Mucinous appendiceal neoplasm is an uncommon pathology that occurs predominantly in middle-aged women. Its classification and management have been the subject of debate in recent decades. The aim of this study was to analyse the incidence, clinical management and survival of these tumours diagnosed in our centre in the last 10 years.

Methods

This was a retrospective observational study of patients with a diagnosis of appendiceal neoplasms between 2009 and 2018 in our centre. Variables such as sex, age, tumour type, clinical status, diagnosis, treatment and survival were collected. All data were analysed using the statistical program IBM SPSS Statistic® version 25.

Results

Twenty-nine patients with a diagnosis of appendiceal neoplasm were identified, and 24 corresponded to neoplastic appendiceal mucinous lesions (85.7%). The average age was 59.7 ± 17.6 years. Most patients were women (15 cases; 62.5%). Most of them presented with chronic abdominal pain (37.5%), and the diagnosis was performed by computed tomography (CT) (50%). The treatment was surgical in all cases. The surgical technique depended on the findings and histology of the tumour.

Conclusion

Mucinous appendiceal neoplasms are an uncommon entity, and their pathological classification and management have recently changed.

Neuroendocrine apendicopathy in morphologically normal appendices of patients with diagnosis of acute appendicitis: Diagnostic study

Background

About 15%–25% of appendices removed to treat acute appendicitis present normal macro- and macroscopic morphology. The objective of this study was to verify an association of proinflammatory, neuroendocrine and immune mediators with morphologically normal appendices removed from patients with clinical laboratorial and imaging characteristics of acute appendicitis.

Materials and methods

Appendices removed from 121 adult patients of both genders were distributed into three groups according to their following characteristics: group 1: 53 macro- and microscopically normal appendices from patients with clinical, laboratorial and imaging diagnosis of acute appendicitis; group 2: 24 inflamed appendices from patients with clinical, laboratorial, imaging and histopathological diagnosis of acute appendicitis; group 3: 44 normal appendices from patients submitted to right colectomy to treat localized ascending colon adenocarcinoma. All appendices were immunohistochemically studied for gastrin inhibitor peptide, mast cell tryptase, vascular endothelial growth factor; intestinal vasoactive peptide, tumor necrosis factor alpha, interleukin 1, prostaglandin E2, gene-protein product 9.5, CD8 T lymphocytes, synaptophysine, enolase, and S100 protein.

Results

The group 1 revealed increased levels of synaptophysine, enolase, mast cell tryptase and PGP-9.5 comparing with the other two groups. The group 2 presented increased levels of interleukin 1, CD8 T lymphocytes and prostaglandin E2 comparing with the other two groups. The group 3 confirmed the normal levels of all these neuroendocrine, immune and proinflammatory mediators.

Conclusions

Morphologically normal appendices removed from patients with clinical and complementary exams indicating acute appendicitis have appendicular neuroimmunoendocrine disorder associated with the mediators synaptophysin, enolase, mast cell-related tryptase and gene-protein product 9.5.

•

15 % to 25% of the appendices removed to treat acute appendicitis have normal appearance with no inflammatory signs.

•

All patients with normal appendices removed due to acute appendicitis do not present similar clinical manifestation anymore.

•

Inflammatory and neuroendocrine appendicopathies present similar clinical laboratorial and imaging characteristics.

•

Morphologically normal appendices removed from patients indicating acute appendicitis have neuroimmunoendocrine disorders.

•

Synaptophysin, enolase, mast cell tryptase and gene-protein product 9.5 are associated with neuroimmunoendocrine disorders.

Evaluation of liver transplant recipients underwent incidental appendectomies

OBJECTIVE

To assess the clinicopathological features of liver transplant recipients underwent incidental appendectomies.

METHODS

Between September 2002 and July 2019, 2500 patients underwent liver transplantation at our Liver Transplant Institute, including 38 (24 males, 14 females) who also underwent incidental appendectomies. Incidental appendectomies were performed on 24 patients during recipient hepatectomies and on 14 during relaparotomies due to various surgical conditions. The following patient parameters were retrospectively evaluated: age, sex, underlying liver disease, liver transplant type, appendectomy indication, appendix length (mm) and diameter (mm), presence of appendicitis, and histopathological findings.

RESULTS

The 38 patients who underwent incidental appendectomies had a mean age of 18.3±21.7 (range: 1-66) years and median appendix lengths and diameters of 55 (range: 19-90) mm and 6 (range: 4-20) mm, respectively. Histopathologically, the appendectomy specimens were classified as follows: vermiform appendix (n=16), lymphoid hyperplasia (n=13), acute appendicitis (n=3), fibrous obliteration (n=3), perforated appendicitis (n=1), mucinous cystadenoma (n=1), and appendiceal serosa invasion by sigmoid adenocarcinoma (n=1). There were no postoperative complications, including wound infections, abscesses, or leakage from the appendiceal stumps, related to the incidental appendectomies.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrated that incidental appendectomies can be successfully performed in immunosuppressed patients. However, additional studies are required to confirm these results.

Unusual infectious agents detected in appendectomy specimens: A retrospective analysis of 42 cases

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical and histopathological features of 42 patients with unusual infectious agents detected in their appendectomy specimens.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Between January 1999 and November 2018, 2.754 patients underwent emergency or incidental appendectomy in our clinic, and their pathology reports were retrospectively reviewed. Unusual infectious agents or eosinophilic infiltration of the appendix were reported in the initial pathological examinations of 57 patients. The pathological slides of these patients were re-examined by histopathologists. The examinations revealed that 15 of these patients had no microscopic findings suggestive of parasitic infections. The remaining 42 patients with unusual appendiceal infectious agents were included into the study.

RESULTS

A total of 42 patients (25 females and 17 males) aged 18 to 75 years were included into this study. While 32 of these patients (76%) underwent emergency appendectomy with a presumed diagnosis of acute appendicitis (AAp), the remaining 10 patients underwent incidental appendectomy for various reasons. Twenty-two patients (52.4%) had histopathological changes consistent with AAp while 20 patients had no evidence of AAp. Histopathological examination revealed infection with Enterobius vermicularis in 38 of the patients, Taenia species in 2, and Ascaris lumbricoides and Actinomyces species in 1 patient each. A total of 24 patients were treated for infections with mebendazole (n = 20), albendazole (n =1), niclosamide (n = 2), and amoxicillin (n = 1).

CONCLUSION

Unusual infectious agents should be considered as factors potentially triggering AAp, especially in patients living in endemic areas. The appendiceal stump should be inspected for parasite residues.

Routine Histopathological Evaluation After Appendectomy: Is It Necessary? A Systematic Review

Acute appendicitis is one of the most common reasons for acute abdominal pain. Fecaliths and lymphoid hyperplasia are the usual etiology of acute appendicitis, however, other unusual causes can also not be neglected which can be parasitic infections, benign or malignant lesions. Due to substantial lab costs and limited resources, the policy of routine histopathological examination (HPE) of appendectomy samples is being questioned. PubMed, PubMed Central (PMC), and Google Scholar were used to look for relevant published studies. The following keywords were used both alone and in combination: "Acute appendicitis" and "routine histopathological examination". Fifteen articles were selected for final review that collectively had 57,524 cases. All these studies included in this systematic review are peer-reviewed. Based on the reviewed articles, it was found that though the probability of unusual findings in a patient of acute appendicitis is less but it is still significant and if found, often results in a change of management plan of the patient. Therefore, it is recommended to perform a routine histopathological examination of all appendectomy specimens to rule out unusual pathologies.

Incidental lesions in appendectomy specimens: Rare or rarely sampled?

OBJECTIVE:

During the microscopic examination of the specimens after appendectomy operations performed due to acute appendicitis, pathologists may encounter some incidental and unusual lesions. Appendectomy specimens are sampled as 3 sections/1 paraffin block in many centers. In this study, we aimed to evaluate whether multiple and dense sampling of appendix specimens has an impact on the incidence of incidental lesions of the appendix.

METHODS:

This study is a retrospective study of 1154 patients who underwent appendectomy with presumed acute appendicitis at the Department of General Surgery, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Cerrahpasa Faculty of Medicine, had histopathological evaluation between 2007–2011 and 2014–2018. Group 1 was made up of the patients whose appendix specimens were examined as 3 sections/1 paraffin block. Group 2 was made up of the patients whose appendix specimens were sampled completely. In this study, it was evaluated whether there was a difference between the two groups concerning incidence of incidental benign and malign appendix lesions.

RESULTS:

There were 579 patients in Group 1, 575 patients in Group 2, and the mean age of the groups was 26 and 28, respectively. Neither acute appendicitis findings nor any of the other unusual lesions were found in 57 specimens (9.8%) in Group 1 and 58 specimens (10.1%) in Group 2. Unusual pathological findings were detected in six specimens in Group 1 and 21 in Group 2. All unusual lesions, including benign and malignant, were significantly higher in Group 2 than in Group 1 (p=0.013). Concerning the incidence of malignant incidental lesions alone, there was no significant difference between the two groups (p=0.136).

CONCLUSION:

Multiple and dense sampling of appendectomy specimens increases the likelihood of detecting unusual lesions of the appendix.

Routine histopathologic examination of the appendix after appendectomy for presumed appendicitis: Is it really necessary? A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Owing to substantial costs and increasing interest in the nonoperative management of appendicitis, the necessity of routine histopathologic examination of appendectomy specimens is being questioned. The aim of this study was to determine whether routine histopathologic examination after appendectomy for suspected appendicitis should still be performed.

METHODS

PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library were searched for studies listing the histopathologic diagnoses after appendectomy for suspected appendicitis. Main outcomes were the incidence of histopathologically proven aberrant findings, the ability of surgeons to recognize unexpected appendiceal pathology intraoperatively, and the percentage of aberrant findings resulting in a change of postoperative management. A meta-analysis was performed using a random-effects model.

RESULTS

Twenty-five studies with 57,357 patients were included. The pooled percentage of aberrant findings was 2.52% (95% confidence interval 1.81-3.51). Neoplasms were found in 0.71% (95% confidence interval 0.54-0.94). Findings of the intraoperative assessment by the surgeon were reported for 82 of the 2,718 (3.0%) unexpected diagnoses, with great variation between studies. The impact on postoperative management was described for 237 of 2,718 (8.7%) aberrant findings. Of these, 166 (70.0%) resulted in a change of postoperative management.

CONCLUSION

Based on current evidence, it remains unclear how many of the unexpected appendiceal pathologies with clinical consequences can be identified intraoperatively by the surgeon. Until reliable data on the safety and potential cost savings of a selective policy becomes available, we advise sending appendectomy specimens routinely for histopathologic examination.

The neglected role of Enterobius vermicularis in appendicitis: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Although the main cause of appendicitis is unclear, infection with Enterobius vermicularis is suggested as a neglected risk factor. Since, there is no comprehensive analysis to estimate the prevalence of E. vermicularis in appendicitis; therefore, we conducted a global-scale systematic review and meta-analysis study to estimate the prevalence of E. vermicularis infection in appendicitis cases. PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and Google Scholar databases were systematically searched for relevant studies published until 15 August 2019. Pooled prevalence of E. vermicularis infection was estimated using the random effects model. Data were classified based on the continents and countries. Moreover, subgroup analyses regarding the gender, the human development index (HDI), and income level of countries were also performed. Fifty-nine studies involving 103195 appendix tissue samples belonging to the individuals of appendicitis were included. The pooled prevalence of E. vermicularis infection was (4%, 95%CI, 2–6%), with the highest prevalence (8%, 95% CI: 0–36%) and lowest prevalence (2%, 95% CI: 1–4%) in Africa and Americas continents, respectively. With respect to countries, the lowest and highest prevalence rates were reported from Venezuela (<1%, 95% CI: 0–1%) and Nigeria (33%, 95% CI: 17–52%), respectively. Indeed, a higher prevalence was observed in females, as well as in countries with lower levels of income and HDI. Our findings indicate the relatively high burden of E. vermicularis infection in appendicitis cases. However, our findings suggest the great need for more epidemiological studies to depth understand overlaps between E. vermicularis infection and appendicitis in countries with lower HDI and income levels.

Single-incision laparoscopic ileocecal resection in a 10-year-old child with appendiceal neuroendocrine tumor

Background

In Japan, the majority of gastrointestinal tract neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) have been reported to originate from the rectum, and appendiceal NETs are relatively rare. Preoperative diagnosis is very difficult and it is diagnosed after appendectomy. Pediatric appendiceal NET is a disease with a good prognosis. However, in rare cases, lymph node metastasis could occur and additional resection is required.

Case presentation

A 10-year-old boy complained of right lower quadrant abdominal pain and underwent an appendectomy under a diagnosis of acute appendicitis in previous hospital. The final diagnosis was appendiceal NET, so he was referred to our department for additional resection. The tumor was found in the base of the appendix and invasively reached the subserosal layer with obvious vascular invasion. His Ki-67 index was 1 to 2%, so we classified it as appendiceal NET G1 according to the WHO 2015 classification. We considered the possibility of a tumor remnant or lymph node metastasis, so we performed single-incision laparoscopy with D3 lymph node dissection. The pathological diagnosis revealed no tumor remnant but metastasis to one lymph node. He was discharged on the 9th postoperative day. There has been no recurrence at 3 years and 7 months after surgery.

Conclusion

When the tumor size is 10–20 mm, the frequency of lymph node metastasis in some reports is variable, and there is no consensus yet on the indications for additional resection. However, there are definitely a certain number of cases with lymph node metastasis that require additional resection. In the present patient, long-term survival can be obtained by additional resection. At present, factors such as the presence of vascular or lymph node invasion and the malignancy grade and tumor’s location must be considered on a case-by-case basis. Although the incidence rate of appendiceal NET is rare, the diagnosis can be made only during postoperative pathological examination; thus, reliable histopathological examination is required.

Isolated Crohn's Disease of the Appendix Presenting as Acute Appendicitis in a 60-Year-Old South Asian Female: A Case Report, Review of Literature, and Follow-Up Recommendations

The isolated appendiceal Crohn's disease without preceding bowel symptoms is a rare phenomenon, especially in older patients. In this case report, we present a 60-year-old female with isolated appendiceal Crohn's disease presenting with acute appendicitis. She presented with classical features of appendicitis with elevated inflammatory markers. She underwent an appendectomy which showed an excessively swollen, oedematous, and reddish appendix with swelling extending to the base of the caecum. Histological evaluation was suggestive of Crohn's disease, and subsequent colonoscopy was unremarkable. Following appendectomy, she was asymptomatic without any recurrence of disease. The atypical morphological appearance of the appendix should raise suspicion of Crohn's disease. This case highlights the importance of histopathological analysis of the specimen, especially in abnormal clinical findings. The prognosis of such patients seems to be good, and additional treatment is rarely needed.

Impact of routine histopathological examination of appendectomy specimens on patient management: a study of 4012 appendectomy specimens

Objectives

For a suspected diagnosis of acute appendicitis, appendectomy is one of the most common emergency abdominal operations performed. However, the need for routine histopathological examination (HPE) of all appendectomy specimens has recently been questioned. The aim of this study was to assess whether a routine HPE of appendectomy specimens is needed and whether routine HPE has an impact on further management of patients.

Material and Methods

From January 2009 to June 2017, all histopathology reports of 4012 consecutive appendectomy specimens for a clinical suspicion of acute appendicitis were retrospectively analyzed in two university hospitals.

Results

Out of the 4012 cases, 3530 (88%) patients showed findings consistent with acute appendicitis on HPE. Perforation rate was 5.8% and was significantly higher in male patients (p <0.001) and higher in the > 30 years age group (p= 0.024). Negative appendectomy rate was 5.6% and was significantly higher in female patients (p <0.001). There were 256 (6.4%) patients who demonstrated unusual findings in their HPE, which included chronic appendicitis (n= 207; 5.2%) patients, Enterobius vermicularis (n= 14), Schistosoma (n= 8), Crohn's disease (n= 1), neuroma (n= 10), carcinoid tumour (n= 5) and mucinous cystadenoma (n= 5), mucocele (n= 4) and mucinous cystadenocarcinoma (n= 2).

Conclusion

HPE of the appendix does not only confirm the diagnosis of acute appendicitis, but also detects other unusual diagnoses that may have an impact on a patient's management. A number of patients with unusual histopathological findings require anti-helmentic treatment, colectomy, gastroenterology follow-up or periodic surveillance. Hence, all appendectomy specimens must be submitted for routine HPE.

First sliding Amyand hernia harbouring appendicular schistosomiasis: Case report

INTRODUCTION

Amyand's hernia (AH) is rare, schistosomiasis of the appendix is very uncommon, and both conditions coexisting together is an extremely rare event. Pre-operative diagnosis of each of the two conditions is usually difficult. To the best of our knowledge, the current paper is first to report both these two conditions in coexistence.

PRESENTATION OF CASE

A 31-year old man who had no comorbidities was admitted electively as a day case of non-complicated right indirect inguinal hernia. Further history and physical examination were unremarkable. Intraoperatively the patient was found to have right sliding AH with appendicular schistosomiasis (AS). The patient underwent Lichtenstein repair of the hernia with appendectomy. On follow up he was referred to infectious disease clinic, and the post-operative course was uneventful.

CONCLUSIONS

Intraoperative identification of non-typical hernia sac before its opening should alert the surgeon to the possibility of sliding hernia and the presence of an organ as a part of the sac. Rare causes of appendicular masses like schistosomiasis granuloma should be considered in endemic areas or immigrants from these areas, despite the difficulty of preoperative diagnosis. Management should follow general guidelines of appendectomy, hernia repair and dealing with the associated pathology if present.

The Impact of Pathological Criteria on Pediatric Negative Appendectomy Rate

INTRODUCTION

Negative appendectomy rate (NAR) is a quality metric used in the surgical management of appendicitis. The rates of negative appendectomy (NA) in children range anywhere from 1% to 40% in the literature. Many reports do not provide clear pathological definitions for either appendicitis or NA on which they base their calculation of NAR. We reviewed our experience with pediatric appendectomy and the pathological spectrum encompassed within our definition of a NA and examined how the pathologic definition impacts our hospital's NAR.

METHODS

A retrospective review from 2012 to 2016 in a single institution identified 1676 children that underwent appendectomy. Average age was 11.4 (2-18 years). Patient demographics, clinical outcomes and pathological findings were collected. At our institution, appendicitis is defined as the presence of transmural acute inflammation in the appendix and those patients without this finding have been considered to have had a negative appendectomy.

RESULTS

1435 patients underwent appendectomy for presumed appendicitis. The rate of pathologically diagnosed appendicitis was 91.1% (1307/1435) and as such, the NAR was 8.9% (128/1435). Review of the pathology of the NA cohort identified 67/128 (52.3%) patients with completely normal pathology. The remaining 61 patients displayed some sort of pathological abnormality including malignancy (n = 2), fecaliths (n = 9), pinworms (n = 3), granuloma (n = 2), fibrous obliteration (n = 4), isolated periappendiceal inflammation (n = 1), and acute inflammation confined to the mucosa (n = 40). Exclusion of these patients with abnormal pathology decreased the NAR to 4.6%. Patients with pathological abnormalities of the appendix other than transmural inflammation had a higher rate of 30-day readmission than patients with acute appendicitis (8.2% versus 4.5% p < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Pediatric NAR is dependent upon the pathological definition of appendicitis and negative appendectomy. Institutional variation in definition may explain discrepancies in the literature. By example, including only those that show "the absence of inflammation or other appendiceal pathology" would decrease our NAR by 50%. This study calls into question the interpretation of interhospital NAR and the use of NAR as a quality metric in the management of appendicitis. Retrospective comparative study: Level III evidence.

Comparison of clinical and histopathological features of patients who underwent incidental or emergency appendectomy

BACKGROUND

Incidental appendectomy can be defined as the removal of a clinically normal appendix during another surgical procedure unrelated to appendicitis or other appendicular diseases.

AIM

To compare the demographic, biochemical, and histopathological features of the patients who underwent incidental and standard appendectomy.

METHODS

The demographic, biochemical, and histopathological data of 72 patients (Incidental App group) who underwent incidental appendectomy during living donor hepatectomy at our Liver Transplant Center between June 2009 and December 2016 were compared with data of 288 patients (Acute App group) who underwent appendectomy for presumed acute appendicitis. The Incidental App group was matched at random in a 1:4 ratio with the Acute App group in the same time frame. Appendectomy specimens of both groups were re-evaluated by two experienced pathologists.

RESULTS

Statistically significant differences were found between groups in terms of age (P = 0.044), white blood cell count (P < 0.001), neutrophil (P < 0.001), lymphocyte (P < 0.001), red cell distribution width (P = 0.036), mean corpuscular hemoglobin (P = 0.001), bilirubin (P = 0.002), appendix width (P < 0.001), and presence of acute appendicitis histopathologically (P < 0.001). However, no statistically significant differences were found between groups in terms of gender, platelet, mean platelet volume, mean corpuscular volume, platelet distribution width, appendix length. While the most common histopathological findings in the Incidental App group were normal appendix vermiformis (72.2%), fibrous obliteration (9.7%) and acute appendicitis (6.9%), the most common histopathological findings in the Acute App group were non-perforated acute appendicitis (62.8%), perforated appendicitis (16.7%), lymphoid hyperplasia (8.3%), and appendix vermiformis (6.3%).

CONCLUSION

Careful inspection of the entire abdominal cavity is useful for patients undergoing major abdominal surgery such as donor hepatectomy. We think that experience is parallel to the surgeon’s foresight, and we should not hesitate to perform incidental appendectomy when necessary

Clinicopathological Criteria Defining Mucinous Appendiceal Tumors from 2476 Appendectomies: a Single-Center Retrospective Study

OBJECTIVES

Mucinous appendiceal tumors (MATs) constitute 0.2-0.3% of appendectomies. This retrospective chart review study determines the incidence of MATs among appendectomies at King Abdul-Aziz Specialist Hospital, Taif City, Saudi Arabia, from January 2009 to December 2014. The clinicopathological features, histopathological criteria, management, outcomes of patients, and the impact of histopathological classification on the follow-up period and recurrence are evaluated.

METHODS

Demographic and clinicopathological data were collected from medical records. Microscopic slides from 2476 appendectomies were re-examined to diagnose and classify MATs into low-grade mucinous neoplasms (LAMNs) and mucinous adenocarcinomas (MACAs). CK20, CK7, and cdx2 immunohistochemistry was applied for evaluating pseudomyxoma peritonei. Data were expressed as numbers, percentages, and mean ± standard deviation.

RESULTS

Nine MATs were diagnosed with an incidence of 0.36% of appendectomies, a male:female ratio of 1.25:1 and a mean age of 57.2 years. Acute appendicitis was the commonest clinical presentation. About 66.7% were LAMNs and 33.3% MACAs. Beside appendectomy, MACAs were managed with right hemicolectomy and chemotherapy. The median follow-up was 34 months with recurrence and liver metastases in two MACAs. No recurrences for LAMNs.

CONCLUSIONS

MATs constitute 0.36% of all appendectomies. Classifying MATs into LAMNs and MACAs is more applicable for both clinical and pathology practices as compared to the three- or four-tiered classification schemes.

Acute eosinophilic appendicitis simulating uncomplicated appendicitis

Acute appendicitis is one of the most common abdominal emergencies worldwide. Uncomplicated appendicitis (UA), which does not involve perforation or peritonitis, has recently been treated with antibiotic therapy. Here, we report a case of acute eosinophilic appendicitis (AEA) that simulated UA and did not respond to antibiotic therapy. A 20-year-old Japanese woman emergently presented with the chief complaint of pain at the right iliac fossa. CT showed only swelling of the appendix. She was diagnosed with UA, and she received antibiotic therapy initially. However, the treatment was not effective and appendectomy was performed. The final histopathological diagnosis was AEA. The findings of this case suggest that AEA is likely to be diagnosed as UA. As AEA can simulate UA, the possibility of AEA should be considered when antibiotic therapy is not effective.

Neuroendocrine tumor incidentally detected during living donor hepatectomy: A case report and review of literature

To our best knowledge, no case of a tumor that was incidentally detected during living donor hepatectomy (LDH) has been reported in the English language medical literature. We present two cases in which grade I neuroendocrine tumors (NET) were incidentally detected during our twelve-year LDH experience. First Case: A 26-year-old male underwent LDH for his brother suffering from HBV-related chronic liver disease (CLD). After right lobe LDH, intestinal length was measured as part of a study concerning the relationship between small intestinal lengths and surgical procedure. At this stage, a mass lesion with a size of 10 mm × 10 mm was detected on the antimesenteric surface, approximately 90 cm proximal to the ileocecal valve. A wedge resection with primary intestinal anastomosis was performed. Second Case: A 29-year-old male underwent right lobe LDH for his father with hepatitis B virus (HBV)-related CLD. An abdominal exploration immediately prior to the closure of the incision revealed that the appendix vermiformis was edematous and had firmness with a size of 8-10 mm at its tip. An appendectomy was performed. The pathological examinations of the specimens of both patients revealed grade 1 NET. In conclusion, even if patients undergoing LDH are healthy individuals, whole abdominal cavity should be gently palpated and all findings recorded after completing laparotomy. Suspected masses or lesions should be confirmed by frozen section examination. Such an approach would avert potential medicolegal issues.

Unusual Histopathological Findings in Appendectomy Specimens: A Retrospective Analysis of 2047 Cases

Background. In this study, we retrospectively evaluated cases of patients who had undergone appendectomy in our hospital and aimed to present the efficiency of diagnostic tests and demographic data of cases. Pathological reports were analyzed for the following parameters: age, gender, and pathological diagnosis. In addition, the demographic and clinicopathologic characteristics of patients with unusual histopathologic findings were evaluated in detail, and reanalysis of archived resected appendix specimens was carried out. Methods. Files of 2047 patients (1329 males, 718 females, sex ratio: 1.85, age range: 1-87 years, mean age: 26, 50 years), who had been operated with a diagnosis of acute appendicitis in the emergency department of Bezmialem Vakıf University Medical Faculty from November 2011 to June 2014, were retrospectively evaluated. Results. Cases were separated into 2 groups. Cases with histopathologic examination reported as acute appendicitis constituted group 1 (n = 2013, 98.34%), and cases with pathologic findings other than acute appendicitis constituted group 2 (n = 34, 1.66%). The second group consisted of 8 low-grade mucinous neoplasms, 7 mucoceles, 6 carcinoid, 5 granulomatous inflammation, 4 intraluminal Enterobius vermicularis, 1 endometriosis externa, 1 adenocarcinoma infiltrated to serosa, 1 mesenteric cyst, and 1 low-grade adenocarcinoma formed in mucinous cystic neoplasm background. Conclusion. Acute appendicitis is the most common emergency surgical condition. Although most of the resected appendectomy specimens showed typical histopathologic findings, some (1.66%) showed unusual histopathologic findings. Even if the macroscopic appearance of the specimen is normal or acute appendicitis, we suggest routine histopathological examination.

Clinicopathological analysis of appendiceal mucinous tumors: A single-center experience

Objective

Appendiceal mucinous tumors can be encountered in four different types. The clinical approach varies according to these types and the severity of the present disease. We aimed to share clinical, radiological, and pathological features and surgical options of the patients diagnosed with mucinous tumors at our center.

Material and Methods

Between August 2009 and March 2016, 757 patients underwent appendectomy for presumed diagnosis of acute appendicitis at the Department of Surgery, Kahramanmaraş Sütçü İmam University School of Medicine, Kahramanmaraş, Turkey. Among them, demographic, clinical, and histopathological characteristics of patients who diagnosed with appendiceal mucinous tumors were retrospectively analyzed. This study was approved by our faculty's human ethics committee.

Results

Incidence of mucinous tumor was 1.71%. Mean age of a total of 13 cases including 6 women and 7 men was 52.4±21.6 years (Range: 25-83 years). On preoperative diagnosis, acute appendicitis was detected in 8 patients, perforated appendicitis and periappendiceal abscess in two patients, and suspicious cecal mass in two patients. One patient had an operation for uterine leiomyoma. On histopathological examination, four patients were diagnosed with simple mucinous cyst, four with mucinous cystadenoma, three with mucosal hyperplasia, and two with mucinous cystadenocarcinoma. Mean duration of hospital stay was 5.1±4.7 days. One patient died from septic shock on first day, one from respiratory failure on 14th day, and one from cardiac arrest on 20th day. The average follow-up duration for the other 10 patients was 44 months (ranging from 1 to 78 months). No recurrence or death occurred in these patients over the course of follow-up.

Conclusion

Intraoperative clinical diagnosis of appendiceal mucinous tumors is rarely seen. Close histopathological and cytological examination of the specimen is required to separate malignant tumors from benign ones. The treatment varies depending on different types and the severity of the disease.

Neurogenic ppendicopathy. A report of 8 cases

INTRODUCTION

Neurogenic appendicopathy is not a very well-known disease.

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the experience in the management of neurogenic appendicopathy in a tertiary hospital, assessing its clinical presentation, histological staging, the treatment carried out and its clinical evolution.

METHOD

The study population included patients with histopathological criteria for neurogenic appendicopathy who did not present with MEN 2B syndrome, neurofibromatosis type I or Cowden syndrome. An analysis was carried out of tissue samples taken from a simple appendectomy after a diagnosis of neurogenic appendicopathy between 2000 and 2013, inclusive. The histopathological criteria were neurogenic hyperplasia with S-100 protein positivity and neuron-specific enolase in the immunohistochemical analysis.

RESULTS

Of the 4,969 samples from the appendectomies analyzed, 0.16% (n = 8) met histopathological criteria of neurogenic appendicopathy. The age at presentation was 27.8 ± 12 years. Four patients were male and four were female. All patients started with abdominal pain in the right iliac fossa (RIF), and were operated on due to a diagnosis of acute appendix, with a simple appendectomy being performed. In four cases, another associated disease accounted for the pain in the RIF. With regard to histopathological type, submucosal neurogenic hyperplasia was present in five patients and fibrous obliteration in three patients. No statistically significant differences were found between the histological types. After surgery, during a mean follow up of 73.2 ± 28 months (15-105), all the patients remained asymptomatic.

CONCLUSION

Neurogenic appendicopathy is an uncommon entity that can evolve as abdominal pain which is similar to acute appendix. Simple appendectomy is curative.

Parasitic infestation in appendicitis. A retrospective analysis of 660 patients and brief literature review

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the incidence of parasitic infestations and inflammation accompanying parasitosis in a series of appendectomy cases.  Methods: Six-hundred-sixty  patients who had undergone appendectomy in Bingöl State Hospital, Bingol, Turkey with the preliminary diagnosis of appendicitis between January 2012 and February 2015 were included in this retrospective study. They were retrospectively evaluated in terms of age, gender and pathological findings. Cases diagnosed with parasitic infestations were re-evaluated histopathologically for inflammatory response.  Results: The mean age was 19.6 years, and the male/female ratio was 1.8. When evaluated in terms of histopathological diagnoses, 573 (86.8%) were diagnosed as acute appendicitis, and parasitic infestation was identified in 12 (1.8%). Among cases with parasitic infestation, Enterobius vermicularis was identified in 9 (75%) and Taenia in 3 (25%) cases. Of cases with Enterobius vermicularis, 4 (44.4%) had lymphoid hyperplasia, 1 (11.1%) had normal-structured appendix vermiformis, and 4 (44.4%) had findings of acute appendicitis. All cases with taeniasis had an inflammatory response: acute appendicitis was identified in 2 (66%) and acute gangrenous appendicitis in 1 (33%) of them.  Conclusion: Parasitic infestations are among the probable causes in appendicitis etiology and should be kept in mind during differential diagnosis. However, whether every parasitic infestation leads to appendiceal inflammatory response is controversial.

Feasibility and safety of surgical wound remote follow-up by smart phone in appendectomy: A pilot study

INTRODUCTION

The objective of the present study is to assess the safety and feasibility of the use of telemedicine-based services for surgical wound care and to measure patient satisfaction with telemedicine-based follow-up.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

24 patients were included, they were provided with a corporate mail address. On day 7 after surgery patients sent, via email, an image of their surgical wound together with a completed questionnaire in order to obtain an early diagnosis. Two independent physicians studied this information and the histologic analysis of the specimen. On day 8, all patients underwent face-to-face office examination by a third physician and all of them completed a satisfaction questionnaire at the end of the study.

RESULTS

The use of telemedicine-based services showed a sensitivity of 100%, a specificity of 91.6%, a positive predictive value of 75% and a negative predictive value of 100%. Degree of concordance between the two physicians, as regards the necessity of face-to-face follow-up yielded a kappa coefficient of 0.42 (standard error 0.25 and confidence interval 95% (0.92-0.08), which means a moderate agreement between the two evaluations. 94% of patients were satisfied with telemedicine-based follow-up and 93% showed their preference for this procedure over conventional methods.

CONCLUSIONS

The telemedicine-based follow-up, has proven to be feasible and safe for the evaluation of early postoperative complications. Patients reported high levels of satisfaction with the procedure. Telemedicine-based follow-up could become standard practice with the development of a specific mobile application.

Unexpected Appendiceal Pathologies and Their Changes With the Expanding Use of Preoperative Imaging Studies

Purpose

The preoperative diagnosis of acute appendicitis is often challenging. Sometimes, pathologic results of the appendix embarrass or confuse surgeons. Therefore, more and more imaging studies are being performed to increase the accuracy of appendicitis diagnoses preoperatively. However, data on the effect of this increase in preoperative imaging studies on diagnostic accuracy are limited. We performed this study to explore unexpected appendiceal pathologies and to delineate the role of preoperative imaging studies in the diagnosis of acute appendicitis.

Methods

The medical records of 4,673 patients who underwent an appendectomy for assumed appendicitis between 1997 and 2012 were reviewed retrospectively. Pathological results and preoperative imaging studies were surveyed, and the frequencies of pathological results and preoperative imaging studies were investigated.

Results

The overall rate of pathology compatible with acute appendicitis was 84.4%. Unexpected pathological findings, such as normal histology, specific inflammations other than acute appendicitis, neoplastic lesions, and other pathologies, comprised 9.6%, 3.3%, 1.2%, and 1.5%, respectively. The rate of unexpected pathological results was significantly reduced because of the increase in preoperative imaging studies. The decrease in normal appendices contributed the most to the reduction while other unexpected pathologies did not change significantly despite the increased use of imaging studies. This decrease in normal appendices was significant in both male and female patients under the age of 60 years, but the differences in females were more prominent.

Conclusion

Unexpected appendiceal pathologies comprised 15.6% of the cases. Preoperative imaging studies reduced them by decreasing the negative appendectomy rate of patients with normal appendices.