Pseudomyxoma Peritonei

Pseudomyxoma peritonei causes

• Most commonly caused by appendiceal mucinous neoplasms
• Can also arise (although rarely) from ovarian, colon or other abdominal tumors
• Tumor cells spread into the abdominal cavity and secrete mucin

Pseudomyxoma peritonei risk factors

Pseudomyxoma peritonei is a rare condition and doesn’t carry a lot of noticeable risk factors. It often shares risk factors with other common types of abdominal issues, but they can include:

• History of an appendiceal mucinous tumor
• Misdiagnosed appendicitis that was actually tumor-related
• Rare genetic or familial links to gastrointestinal tumors

Pseudomyxoma peritonei symptoms

• Gradual abdominal swelling or bloating
• Changes in bowel habits
• Abdominal pain or discomfort
• Unexplained weight gain or loss
• Fatigue and reduced appetite
• Development of hernias due to abdominal pressure

Pseudomyxoma peritonei diagnosis

Imaging is often your doctors’ first option to determine the cause of the issues. These imaging tests can include:

• CT scan to detect mucin and tumor presence
• Ultrasound for initial assessment
• Tumor markers (CEA, CA-125) via blood tests

In some cases, surgical exploration or a biopsy would be needed to help provide a more definitive diagnosis

Pseudomyxoma peritonei treatment

• Cytoreductive surgery (CRS) to remove tumors and mucin deposits
• HIPEC (Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy) applied during surgery
• Systemic chemotherapy in select or recurrent cases
• Regular monitoring with imaging and labs to detect recurrence

When to seek care

Talk to your doctor if you’re experiencing:

• Persistent abdominal swelling or discomfort
• Symptoms of unexplained weight gain/loss or bowel changes
• History of appendiceal tumors with new abdominal symptoms
• Any concern for abdominal masses or unusual hernias