Malignant Tumors ofthe Appendix : ImagingFindings

Malignant tumors of the appendix are rare and are histologically similar to those arising elsewhere in the intestines. The frequency of specific tumor types and the clinical presentation of symptomatic tumors are, however, significantly different. Before surgery, correct diagnosis of a malignant appendiceal tumor is rare; most tumors are diagnosed by a pathologist while examining an appendectomy specimen. With the advent of high resolution imaging modalities (u1trasound and helical CT), malignant tumors ofthe appendix may be more accurately diagnosed; this report describes the imaging findings ofmalignant appendiceal tumors.