ABSTRACT

Objective:

Low-grade appendiceal mucinous neoplasms (LAMN) are debated about their potential to cause invasion and pseudomyxoma peritoneii (PMxP). Our aim was to examine these neoplasms by two invasion markers: matrix metalloproteinases- 2 and -9 (MMP).

Methods:

Twenty-eight cases of mucinous adenomas, LAMNs and adenocarcinomas were included. Immunohistochemistry of MMP-2 and -9 were applied and scored.

Results:

Overall, the majority of LAMNs were negative by these two markers.

Conclusion:

LAMNs may not actually have an invasive nature but still they can cause PMxP. These patients should be followed.