A rare case of an inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor of the appendix presenting as acute appendicitis: A case report

Abstract

Introduction and importanceAn inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor is commonly seen in the lungs but rarely in the appendix. It has a distinct inflammatory cell component and myofibroblastic component. The study presents an inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor of the appendix in an elderly who presented with acute appendicitis and was later found to have an appendicular mass intraoperatively. Case presentationHerein, we report a case of inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor of the appendix in a 59 years old female who presented with acute abdomen, features suggestive of acute appendicitis clinically. However, the intra-operative findings showed an appendicular mass involving the base of the appendix for which a right hemicolectomy was done. The histopathological examination of the resected specimen later confirmed it as an inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor of the appendix. Clinical discussionAn inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor is common in the lungs, whereas rare in the appendix. It primarily involves children and young adults. It can present as mimic appendicitis or appendicular mass and should thus be considered in the differentials of these. ConclusionThe rare presentation of inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor of the appendix makes it likely to be missed resulting in overzealous resection of the tumor. Thus, it is important to consider it in the differential diagnosis of acute appendicitis and manage it accordingly.