Objective: To investigate the value of ultrasound in the diagnosis of pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP) and summarize the ultrasonographic features of PMP by comparing with computed tomography (CT) findings.
Method: Ultrasound and CT scan results of 25 patients with PMP confirmed by pathology after surgery were analyzed retrospectively.
Results: Among these 25 PMP patients,three were diagnosed by ultrasound and six by CT(P=0.579). The specific ultrasonographic features of PMP were as follows:the dense punctuate echoes or floccules were detected in hydrops abdominis,which seldom or never move with the change of body position. Honeycomb-like lesions were typical. Notches were formed on the surface of liver or spleen due to the mucinous material and/or the mucinous lesions.
Conclusions: Both ultrasound and CT scan have poor detection rate in the diagnosis of PMP. PMP has specific ultrasonographic features,which may make it possible to diagnose most PMP lesions by ultrasound before surgery