Signet ring cell carcinoma of the rectum: atypical metastatic presentation

BMJ Case Rep. 2019 Apr 30;12(4):e229135. doi: 10.1136/bcr-2018-229135.

Abstract

Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in the world and the fourth most common cause of death related to cancer. Signet ring cell carcinoma represents an uncommon histological type for rectal cancer with less than 1% of all rectal neoplasms. It usually behaves aggressively and has an inferior prognosis. We present the case of a young man diagnosed with signet ring cell rectal carcinoma. He underwent neoadjuvant therapy with partial response, had surgery with curative intent and showed local recurrence after only 3 months. Disease progression happened only weeks after recurrence with metastasis to vertebrae, extraocular muscles, bone marrow and skin. He is currently receiving palliative chemotherapy.

Keywords: Colon cancer; Colorectal surgery; Oncologic surgery; Signet-ring cell; Surgery.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Bone Marrow Neoplasms / secondary*
  • Carcinoma, Signet Ring Cell / diagnostic imaging
  • Carcinoma, Signet Ring Cell / pathology
  • Carcinoma, Signet Ring Cell / secondary*
  • Colonoscopy
  • Delayed Diagnosis / adverse effects
  • Disease Progression
  • Eye Neoplasms / secondary*
  • Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage / diagnostic imaging
  • Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage / pathology*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Palliative Care
  • Rectal Neoplasms / diagnostic imaging
  • Rectal Neoplasms / drug therapy
  • Rectal Neoplasms / pathology*
  • Skin Neoplasms / secondary*
  • Weight Loss