Pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP) is a rare condition in which tumour cells produce large amounts of jelly-like mucus that collects in the abdomen. It most often starts from a tumour of the appendix. Although it spreads slowly, untreated mucus can build up and press on organs. The standard treatment for suitable patients is cytoreductive surgery (CRS) with HIPEC, which can offer long-term control and even cure.
What Causes PMP?
- Most often a mucinous tumour of the appendix
- Less commonly from ovarian, colon or other mucinous tumours
When the tumour ruptures or spreads, cells and mucus spread across the abdominal lining.
Common Symptoms
- Slowly increasing abdominal size
- Bloating or a feeling of fullness
- Abdominal discomfort or pain
- New hernia, especially near the navel or groin
- Change in bowel habits
- Weight gain around the abdomen despite weight loss elsewhere
- Sometimes found during surgery for suspected appendicitis or an ovarian mass
How Is It Diagnosed?
- CT scan: shows typical mucus patterns in the abdomen
- MRI: may add detail
- Tumour markers: CEA, CA 19-9 and CA-125 may be raised
- Biopsy or surgical findings: confirm the diagnosis and grade
Grades of PMP
- Low-grade: slow-growing, better outlook
- High-grade: more aggressive behaviour
The grade influences prognosis and treatment planning.
How Is It Treated?
Cytoreductive surgery (CRS)
Removes all visible tumour and mucus, along with affected organs or peritoneal surfaces. This can be lengthy surgery.
HIPEC
Heated chemotherapy circulated in the abdomen after CRS to target remaining tumour cells.
Follow-up
Regular scans and tumour markers to detect recurrence early.
Other treatments
Systemic chemotherapy may be used for high-grade or non-resectable disease. Debulking surgery may relieve symptoms when complete removal is not possible.
Why Is Specialist Care Important?
PMP is rare and complex. Treatment in a centre experienced in peritoneal surface oncology improves the chance of complete removal and good recovery.
Key Takeaways
- PMP is a rare mucus-producing condition.
- It usually starts from the appendix.
- Increasing abdominal size is a common sign.
- CRS and HIPEC are the main treatment.
- Experienced centres achieve better results.
Final Thoughts
Pseudomyxoma peritonei is rare, but effective treatment exists. Early referral to a specialist team can make a meaningful difference. For PMP evaluation and CRS-HIPEC care, you can consult Dr. Varadharajan, a surgical oncologist in Chennai.
