Primary linitis plastica carcinoma of the colon and rectum

Linitis plastica carcinoma of the colon and rectum is a relatively rare primary colorectal malignancy. The initial diagnosis of this disease is often difficult, and its eventual prognosis is poor. In this report, we describe a case of primary linitis plastica of the rectum in a 57-yr-old American Indian. This case is unique since it represents the first documentation of a primary rectal lesion with metastases to the stomach. The current literature is reviewed with examination of the clinicopathologic features of this neoplasm.