Small cell neuroendocrine carcinoma presenting as inguinal hernia: A case report
Erina Quinn1, Natalie Miller1, James Capanegro1
1Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Bradenton, United States.
Introduction:
One of the most common surgical procedures performed annually is inguinal hernia repair. Inguinal hernias are traditionally known to be caused by a weakening in the abdominal wall and precipitated by increased intraabdominal pressure. Recently, intra-abdominal cancer producing the increased intraabdominal pressure, along with metastasis directly into the inguinal canal, have been identified in more studies as causes of inguinal hernias.
Presentation Of Case:
This case focuses on a unique presentation of small-cell neuroendocrine carcinoma presenting as an inguinal hernia.
Discussion:
This patient's rapid demise and advanced metastatic disease upon presentation is alarming, but his advanced disease process presenting as a routine inguinal hernia is noteworthy. Upon literature analysis, the number of advanced disease processes - most notably cancer - presenting as hernias is significant.
Conclusion:
This case emphasis the importance of perioperative screening, and presents the question, should hernias indicate further workup in the appropriate, at-risk patient populations.
