DOI: https://doi.org/10.36347/sjams.2026.v14i05.024

Pages: 790-797

Appendiceal mucoceles are rare entities, accounting for approximately 0.2-0.3% of appendectomy specimens. They correspond to progressive distension of the appendix of obstructive origin, secondary to intraluminal accumulation of mucoid material. Their clinical presentation is often nonspecific or absent, and they are frequently discovered incidentally, particularly in patients older than 50 years. However, preoperative diagnosis is essential because it helps guide the surgical approach and prevents iatrogenic rupture, which may lead to intraperitoneal dissemination of mucin and pseudomyxoma peritonei.We report a retrospective imaging study of 28 cases of appendiceal mucocele managed at the University Hospital Center of Marrakech between January 2020 and December 2023. The aim of the study was to assess the contribution of imaging, particularly ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), in the diagnosis, characterization, detection of complications, and radiological-histopathological correlation of appendiceal mucoceles. In our series, the mean age was 59.7 years, with a female predominance. Most cases were discovered incidentally. On CT, the typical appearance was a well-defined cystic lesion arising from or communicating with the cecum, usually located in the right iliac fossa, with fluid attenuation, smooth contours, and occasionally mural calcifications. MRI was useful in cases mimicking pelvic or adnexal masses. Imaging also identified signs suggestive of malignancy and complications, including pseudomyxoma peritonei and appendico-colic intussusception. These findings confirm the central role of imaging in the preoperative assessment of appendiceal mucoceles and in surgical planning.