Appendix cancer classification

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Soroush Seifirad, M.D.[2]

Appendix cancer is classified according to the histological findings. According to WHO classification, there are four major groups of appendix cancer including epithelial tumors, non-epithelial tumors, secondary tumors, and hyperplastic (metaplastic) polyps. Carcinoid (well differentiated endocrine neoplasm), and adenocarcinoma are two major subtypes of epithelial tumors, making the majority of appendix cancer cases.

• Appendix cancer may be classified according to WHO classification into 4 groups:^[1]

• Epithelial tumors
• Non-epithelial tumors
• Secondary tumors
• Hyperplastic (metaplastic) polyps.

• The table below summarizes the different types of appendix cancer according to the WHO classification.