Second primary peristomal carcinoma: a case study

Literature has highlighted that peristomal skin problems are common among ostomists (Williams et al, 2010); however, peristoma metastases are considered to be very rare. Peristomal metastases tend to manifest as cutaneous or subcutaneous nodules, or as a rash on the anterior abdominal wall (Lyon and Smith, 2001), and are therefore easily mistaken for a more common stoma complication. The role of the specialist nurse in stoma care is crucial to recognizin unusual skin lesions and referring appropriately for further assessmet and treatment. Highlighting the need for education and sharing of clinical skills, this article explores the care of a patient who was diagnosed with a second primary peristomal adenocarinoma. The patient has consented to the use of this case study, and, to maintain confidentiality, his name has been changed.