Colorectal cancer during pregnancy or postpartum: Case series and literature review

Colorectal cancer in young adults is on the rise. This rise combined with delayed childbearing increases the likelihood of colorectal cancer diagnosed during pregnancy or in the postpartum period.

Electronic health records were used to identify individuals with colorectal cancer in pregnancy or the postpartum period from 1 August 2007 to 1 August 2019.

Forty-two cases were identified. Median age at diagnosis was 33 years. Most (93%) were diagnosed in an advanced stage (III or IV) and had left-sided colorectal cancer tumors (81%). Molecular analysis was completed in 18 (43%) women with microsatellite status available in 40 (95%). The findings were similar to historical controls. Sixty percent were diagnosed in the postpartum period. Common presenting symptoms were rectal bleeding and abdominal pain.

Currently there is no consensus recommendation regarding how to manage colorectal cancer during pregnancy. Given the overlapping symptoms with pregnancy, patients often present with advanced disease. We encourage all health care professionals caring for pregnant women to fully evaluate women with persistent gastrointestinal symptoms to rule out colorectal cancer.