Mucinous cystadenoma of the mesocolon, a rare entity frequently presenting with features of malignity: two case reports and review of the literature

Abstract

Purpose: Mucinous cystadenomas are tumors arising mostly from the ovaries and pancreas. They can also arise from the kidneys, lungs, liver and appendix, but are rarely seen in the mesocolon. Recently, they have been included in an updated classification of mesenteric cysts and cystic tumors. The WHO classification (ICD 10) divides them into three subcategories according to their malignant behavior.

Methods: This report of two cases of mucinous cystadenoma of the mesocolon discusses the diagnostic and therapeutic modalities as well as the pathophysiological pathway(s) of development of these neoplasms.

Results and conclusion: The diagnosis of mucinous cystadenomas of the mesocolon is challenging due to the absence of specific clinical, biological and radiological features, and is often made during or after laparotomy. Preoperative biopsy is not useful and may even lead to misdiagnosis or peritoneal spillage. Surgery is the only curative treatment, but the modalities of resection are still a subject of debate.