Peutz-Jeghers syndrome: case reports and update on diagnosis and treatment

Ke Dong1, Bo Li

  • 1Department of General Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China. dongke1134@hotmail.com

Insights

Peutz-Jeghers syndrome (PJS) often presents with a strong family cancer history and recurrent small intestinal polyps. Early detection and vigilant monitoring are crucial due to potential malignant transformations.

Area of Science:

  • Gastroenterology
  • Oncology
  • Genetics

Background:

  • Peutz-Jeghers syndrome (PJS) is a rare autosomal dominant disorder.
  • Characterized by hamartomatous polyps in the gastrointestinal tract and mucocutaneous pigmentation.
  • Associated with an increased risk of various cancers.

Observation:

  • Six PJS cases reviewed for familial history, carcinogenesis, and polyp recurrence.
  • Strong familial cancer history noted in multiple generations.
  • Recurrent small intestinal polyps requiring surgical intervention observed in two patients.

Findings:

  • Hamartomatous polyps showed adenomatous changes in some cases.
  • Gastric cancer was associated with polyps in one patient.
  • High incidence of polyp recurrence and familial cancer history are key features of PJS.

Implications:

  • The hamartoma-adenoma-carcinoma sequence is implicated in PJS-associated malignancies.
  • Close surveillance of gastrointestinal symptoms is essential.
  • Monitoring of other organs susceptible to cancer is recommended for PJS patients.
Abstract

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