ABSTRACT
Pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP) is an uncommon clinical condition characterized by mucinous ascites and predominantly originates from a perforated epithelial neoplasm of the appendix. While traditionally considered benign, it is apparent that there is a spectrum of diseases varying from slowly progressive to aggressively malignant disease such that PMP, at best, should be considered a “borderline” malignancy. PMP of nonappendiceal origin tends to be at the adverse end of the spectrum. Presentation of PMP in males at an early stage is less common, unless as an incidental finding in appendicectomy specimens, and many males present with insidious onset advanced disease. PMP is a clinicopathological entity resulting from mucinproducing peritoneal and omental tumor implants secondary to a perforated mucinous neoplasm. The distribution of mucinous tumor implants within the peritoneal cavity is determined by what has been termed “the redistribution phenomenon”. With increasing experience in management of PMP, a follow-up strategy is needed to detect and treat recurrence.
