Appendix Mucocele

Dear Ask The Doctor: I have been Diagnosed as having Appendix Mucocele yesterday, I went in with a susspected overian cyst and the Appendix Mucocele was not found until they started to operate. The doctors at the Hospital have said its very rare and the surgon was unable to deal that it in theater. We have been told very little about it and I can only find real medical and scientific references to it on the internet which is beyond my understanding. I would like to know in simple terms how serious it is, what the treatment is, is it usually treated or managed and how common it is. Many thanks

Dear Helene: An appendix mucocele is a rare condition in which the appendix is filled with mucous usually as a result of a tumor within its wall. It is a serious condition and requires urgent surgical removal. The extent of the surgery depends on several factors but may include removing just the appendix or a large portion of the intestines as well. Rupture of a mucocele is a seriuos complication which increases the morbidity and mortality rate so please have it treated as soon as possible.