Primary transitional cell carcinoma of the prostate presenting as a rectal ulcer

Primary transitional cell carcinoma of the prostate is a rare clinicopathological entity. It is an aggressive tumor with a poor prognosis. Presentation is usually late, with obstructive voiding complaints. Radical surgery offers locoregional control of the disease. We report a case with an atypical presentation of bleeding per rectum and associated obstructive voiding symptoms. Examination revealed a rectal ulcer overlying an enlarged prostate and fixed to it. Histopathology showed a picture of transitional cell carcinoma of the prostate infiltrating the rectum. Imaging studies revealed an enlarged prostate with altered echo pattern with locoregional spread, infiltrating the rectum. Bladder involvement and distant metastases were not evident. External beam radiotherapy achieved good local control. At 3 months of follow-up, the patient was free of urinary symptoms and his rectal ulcer had healed. The patient declined subsequent treatment.