Morphology and Pathophysiology of 10 Different Types of Peritoneal Metastases

Background Predictions concerning the natural history of peritoneal surface malignancy may be available from the study of the sites of cancer progression on the peritoneal surface. As a first step to identify useful clinical and histopathological correlations the multiple morphologic types of peritoneal metastases must be identified and a meaningful nomenclature associated with each type. Methods The morphological types were selected from their appearance on peritoneal surfaces. Both open and laparoscopic observations and photographs were utilized. The pathophysiology that was responsible for the lesion's appearance was an important consideration in separating the numerous shapes and sizes into specific morphologic types. Results As an initial step peritoneal lesions were separated into raised types and flat types. Line drawings of each of the 10 morphologic types were constructed and a single illustrative photograph associated with each morphologic type. A description of the pathophysiology of each type was contained within the text. Conclusions Ten morphologic types of peritoneal surface malignancies were selected, illustrated and provided with a definitive nomenclature. The pathophysiology of each type was presented. These morphologic types are considered the starting place for further study of morphology in the prediction of outcome of peritoneal metastases treatments.