Melanosis of the appendix: prevalence, distribution and review of the pathogenesis of 47 cases

The appendix is reported to be a common site for melanosis, especially at autopsy although to date there have been few studies expanding or qualifying this statement. Based on 47 cases identified from a series of 636 consecutive surgical specimens the prevalence, pattern of distribution, nature of the pigment and current knowledge of the aetiology and pathogenesis of melanosis of the appendix is reviewed and compared with melanosis coli.