Primary appendiceal malignancy mimicking advanced stage ovarian carcinoma: A case series

Background. Primary appendiceal malignancy metastatic to the ovaries is a rare condition that may mimic late stage ovarian cancer. This condition is rarely diagnosed preoperatively. Cases. Three patients referred to our institution from 1994 to 1999 for presumed late stage ovarian cancer were found to have primary appendiceal adenocarcinoma, adenocarcinoid, and mucinous cystadenocarcinoma metastatic to the ovaries at laparotomy. We describe the clinical course of these patients and review the relevant literature. Conclusion. It is important for the gynecologic oncologist to be aware of the clinicopathological features and surgical management of these malignancies, as the incidence, prognosis, and recommended treatment vary with histological subtype.