Did You Know!
A rare tumor of the appendix can initially look surprisingly similar to ordinary appendicitis. Tumors that begin in the appendix are uncommon, and some people have no obvious warning signs before they’re discovered. In certain cases, a tumor can obstruct the appendix and trigger inflammation, producing abdominal pain and other symptoms that resemble acute appendicitis. The growth may only be identified after surgeons remove the appendix and the tissue is examined by a pathologist. There are several different types of appendix tumors, and their treatment and outlook can vary considerably. This unusual possibility is one reason removed appendix tissue is commonly sent for laboratory examination after surgery.
