The pathology of pseudomyxoma peritonei and appendix tumours

“Cancer of the appendix?”

“Never heard of that one” is an all too common exchange that for those of us with appendix cancer. Often these exchanges are with medical professionals. Mention pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP) and people definitely glaze over.

Classification of cancers is a complex business and even the experts can disagree. We are fortunate though, that within our community, a classification system has been developed. Norman Carr, MB BS FRCPath FRCPA FAcadMEd, former Director of Research and Consultant Histopathologist at the Peritoneal Malignancies Institute, Basingstoke, has made his contribution to the classification of Tumours of the Digestive System published by the World Health Organisation (WHO). Many appendiceal cancer specialists refer to and use this system.

Once you can name what it is that you have, it is easier to self-advocate and receive the most viable treatment for you. “Never heard of that one”. “Well, let me explain”. Many thanks to Norman for the content and his support to our community to become their own advocates.

What we’re going to cover

• What is pathology, and what is its role in patient care?
• What is pseudomyxoma peritonei?
• What kind of appendix tumours are there?

The following pages are intended as a brief overview for non-medical people and aims to answer these questions in a non-jargon, user-friendly way.

on to What is pathology? >>