Recurrence of carcinoma of appendix presenting as vulvar swelling: a case report

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Adenocarcinoma of the vulva is rare and can develop as metastatic recurrence originating from the appendix. Vulvar swelling can be one of the presenting symptoms and should not be presumed to be lymphedema unless possible malignant metastasis has been excluded. CASE: We report a case of vulvar swelling arising after hysterectomy, bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy, pelvic and para-aotic lymphadenectomy, and appendectomy for presumed ovarian malignancy. Pathology revealed stage IV carcinoma of the appendix. The patient presented with vulvar swelling 12 months after the operation. An erythematous vulva with multiple hard nodular growths was found on examination. Biopsy confirmed recurrence of adenocarcinoma of the appendix. CONCLUSION: Recurrent carcinoma of the appendix can metastasize to the vulva and may present as vulvar swelling.