Carcinoma transverse colon masquerading as carcinoma gall bladder

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Oncology
• Surgical Pathology

Background:

• Colorectal cancer is a globally prevalent malignancy with increasing incidence in developing nations.
• Common presentations include weight loss, anemia, abdominal masses, altered bowel habits, obstruction, or rectal bleeding.
• Rarely, colorectal cancer can manifest atypically, mimicking other conditions such as gallbladder disease.

Observation:

• A 60-year-old male presented with right-sided abdominal pain, initially suggestive of cholecystitis.
• Intraoperative findings revealed a transverse colon mass adjacent to the gallbladder.
• The patient underwent extended right hemicolectomy for suspected colon cancer.

Findings:

• Histopathological examination confirmed adenocarcinoma of the transverse colon with clear margins.
• The gallbladder exhibited cholecystitis but no signs of malignancy.
• The colon cancer mimicked cholecystitis, causing initial diagnostic confusion.

Implications:

• This case highlights the importance of considering rare presentations of colorectal cancer.
• Effective diagnostic strategies are essential to avoid misdiagnosis and delayed treatment.
• Public awareness, screening, and prompt management are vital for reducing colorectal cancer's impact.