Adenosquamous Carcinoma of the Cecum: A Rare but Aggressive Form of Colonic Neoplasia

Abstract

Adenosquamous carcinoma is a rare form of colorectal cancer. It is believed to be more aggressive and carries a poorer prognosis compared to the more typical colonic adenocarcinomas. Here we describe a case of primary cecaladenosquamous carcinoma invading into the terminal ileum along with a review of the literature.

Adenosquamous Carcinoma Colon – An Aggressive and Rare Neoplasm

“…The commonest cause of squamous histomorphology in colon is metastatic deposits, which have to be ruled out before the diagnosis of primary adenosquamous or squamous cell carcinoma colon [4]. In our patient, a thorough clinical and radiological examination did not reveal any additional masses other than the colonic and liver lesions.…”

“…Colorectal adenosquamous carcinomas usually present in the 6 th to 7 th decade of life with a mean age of 59 years [4]. In a study conducted by Masoomi et al, colorectal adenosquamous carcinomas were noted more often in individuals younger than 60 years, when compared to cases of adenocarcinoma colon which presented at a later age [3].…”

“…Colorectal adenosquamous carcinoma has an aggressive course and remains a therapeutic challenge [7]. The squamous component of colorectal adenosquamous carcinoma has an increased potential for metastases, therefore leading to worse prognosis [4]. Masoomi et al showed that compared to adenocarcinoma, adenosquamous carcinoma colon was associated with higher rate of advanced disease at presentation, explaining the higher mortality rates observed for adenosquamous carcinoma colon [3].…”