ABSTRACT
Objective To investigate the histogenesis,clinicopathological features and biological behavior of goblet cell carcinoid (GCC) of the appendix. Methods 3 cases of GCC of the appendix were studied by light microscopy and immunohistochemistry. Results 3 cases all occured in men. Microscopically: the tumor was composed of goblet cells containing mucin-filled with basal round to crescentic nuclei without atypia.These tumor cells were arranged in single forms,nests or acinus with no central lumen. 1 case was composed of simple goblet cells and typical carcinoid cells were seen in other 2 cases arranged in trabeculae and tubule.There was transition between goblet cells with tubelar and crypt epithelium.Immunohistochemical staining revealed that goblet cells were positively reacted with CgA, Syn, CEA, CK and p53 in 1 case. Conclusions Goblet cell carcinoid of the appendix arise from a pluripotent cell with divergent neuroendocrine and mucinous differentiation .It is a subtype of carcinoids of the appendix.The diagnosis mainly bases on its morphologic changes and immunohistochemical findings. The unpredictable behavior of this tumor is probably related to its component and the degree of infiltration.