AFP-producing hepatoid adenocarcinoma of appendix: a case report of 18F-FDG PET/CT

Clin Imaging. 2014 Jul-Aug;38(4):526-528. doi: 10.1016/j.clinimag.2014.02.019. Epub 2014 Mar 10.

Abstract

Hepatoid adenocarcinoma (HAC) is a rare tumor. We described here a rare case of appendix HAC. A 59-year-old man underwent F-18-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) for gradually elevated alpha-Fetoprotein level. Multiple masses in the abdominal cavity with moderate FDG uptake were revealed, suggesting malignant tumor with peritoneal metastasis. The patient underwent radical resection, and the postoperative pathological result was HAC originated from the appendix. To our knowledge, it is the first report of HAC of the appendix. Our study suggests that FDG PET/CT may help in detecting the primary tumor and the metastases of HAC.

Keywords: Alpha-Fetoprotein; Appendix; FDG; Hepatoid adenocarcinoma; Positron emission tomography/computed tomography.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adenocarcinoma / pathology
  • Appendix / diagnostic imaging*
  • Fluorodeoxyglucose F18*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Neoplasm Metastasis
  • Peritoneum / pathology
  • Positron-Emission Tomography*
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed*
  • alpha-Fetoproteins / metabolism*

Substances

  • alpha-Fetoproteins
  • Fluorodeoxyglucose F18