Sister Mary Joseph nodule
Pronunciation: SIS-ter MARY JO-zef NOD-yool
A metastatic umbilical nodule indicating advanced intra-abdominal or pelvic malignancy.
Full Definition
Sister Mary Joseph nodule is a rare metastatic umbilical nodule that represents hematogenous or lymphatic spread of intra-abdominal or pelvic malignancy to the umbilicus. Named after Sister Mary Joseph Dempsey, who first described this clinical finding while assisting Dr. William Mayo, this nodule typically appears as a firm, non-tender mass at the umbilicus. The most common primary sources include gastric cancer (23%), pancreatic cancer (11%), and colorectal cancer (11%), though any intra-abdominal malignancy can metastasize to this site. The presence of Sister Mary Joseph nodule indicates advanced, incurable disease with peritoneal dissemination and carries a uniformly poor prognosis with median survival of 2-11 months. Diagnosis requires tissue confirmation through biopsy.
Usage
Usage note: Capitalize all three names as this is an eponym honoring Sister Mary Joseph Dempsey.
In Context
- "Physical examination revealed a Sister Mary Joseph nodule, prompting investigation for intra-abdominal primary malignancy." — Physical examination note
- "Biopsy of the umbilical nodule confirmed Sister Mary Joseph nodule with adenocarcinoma cells consistent with gastric origin." — Pathology report