Three synchronous gastrointestinal tumours

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Surgical Oncology
• Pathology

Background:

• Mucinous cystadenomas of the appendix and carcinoid tumors of Meckel's diverticula are individually rare gastrointestinal neoplasms.
• Both entities possess malignant potential, necessitating accurate diagnosis and management.

Observation:

• A 77-year-old female presented with lower abdominal pain, revealing an 8 cm right iliac fossa mass via ultrasound.
• Further investigations identified synchronous tumors in the descending colon, appendix, and a Meckel's diverticulum.

Findings:

• Histopathological analysis confirmed a T3N0 Dukes B colonic adenocarcinoma, a Meckel's diverticulum carcinoid tumor, and an appendiceal mucinous adenoma.
• The patient underwent subtotal colectomy and diverticulectomy, remaining tumor-free five years post-operation.

Implications:

• This case represents the first documented instance of three synchronous gastrointestinal tumors with distinct histological origins.
• Highlights the importance of thorough investigation in patients presenting with multiple gastrointestinal lesions.