Carcinoid tumors of the vermiform appendix

Abstract

The carcinoid tumor of the appendix is a small, and usually innocuous, lesion most frequently discovered incidentally in an appendix removed for other reasons. It will only uncommonly contribute to the development of acute appendicitis. Although more frequently diagnosed in the female, the incidence of this tumor is equal in both sexes. The appendiceal carcinoid can occur in early childhood and reaches a peak incidence in young adults. Among patients older than 60 years the incidence seems to decrease more rapidly than can be explained by the frequency of appendectomies. Invasion of muscular layers, lymphatic invasion, and peritoneal involvement are common with appendiceal carcinoids. Metastasis is rare. The malignant carcinoid syndrome can occur but is even less common. Simple appendectomy is adequate treatment for the patient with an appendiceal carcinoid and no gross evidence of metastasis. Right hemicolectomy is justifiable only for the rare primary tumor measuring 2 cm or more in diameter.