CASE REPORT: Cadaveric finding of mucocele appendix

Abstract

INTRODUCTIONThis case report describes an abnormally enlarged cadaveric appendix subsequently identified as a mucocele. An appendicular mucocele is defined as a general macroscopic dilation of the appendicular lumen caused by abnormal accumulation of mucous (Persaud, 2007). There has been no previous published report of an appendicular mucocele in the cadaver. Of the 608 cadavers dissected in the last 8 years at the University of Alberta this was our first observation.CASE REPORTThe recorded cause of death for this 86 year old female patient was congestive heart failure. Routine dissection of the gastrointestinal system revealed an extremely large vermiform appendix. It was untethered and presented in the pelvic position i.e., directed toward the pelvic brim. Apart from of the usually large size, there were no overt signs of inflammation of the appendix or its surrounding tissue. The mesoappendix did not display any pathology and as expected, it contained the appendicular vessels.CONCLUSIONThis is the first reported case of an aberrantly enlarged mucocele appendix in the cadaver.Grant Funding Source: Professional Expense Allowance