Case Report: Management of rectal squamous cell carcinoma - a treatment dilemma

Primary rectal squamous cell carcinoma is rare compared to adenocarcinoma, which is the predominant histologic type most commonly discovered at the time of colorectal carcinoma diagnosis. Due to the infrequent nature of this malignancy, data on tumor pathogenesis and risk factors remains sparse. Moreover, no standardized therapeutic regimen exists. This report describes a case of advanced rectal squamous cell carcinoma diagnosed in a 46-year-old female who initially presented with abdominal pain. Her clinical course was uncomplicated and she responded well to the selected therapy. Much work remains to be accomplished for patients with rectal squamous cell carcinoma.