Appendiceal Goblet Cell Carcinoid Tumour: A Case of Unexpected Lung Metastasis

Abstract

Goblet cell carcinoid tumours are often considered a subset of appendiceal neuroendocrine tumours which behave more aggressively. They usually metastasize through transcoelomic/peritoneal invasion and common sites include the ovaries, peritoneum, and liver. Metastases may have goblet cell carcinoid, signet ring cell carcinoma or classic carcinoid histology. We report the first case in the literature of a patient with a goblet cell carcinoid with lung metastasis, which was associated with unfavourable outcome.

Are goblet cell carcinoids a group of heterogeneous tumors?

“…The results of immunohistological examination using the Ki-67 proliferative index are not always reliable for assessment of the aggressive behavior of tumors. Pericleous et al 22 reported a case of GCC with lung metastasis and a Ki-67 proliferative index of less than 5%. In four cases of metastasis to lymph nodes and distant metastasis identified in the present study, the Ki-67 proliferative index ranged from 20% to 70%.…”