R0 resection of linitis plastica of the stomach with synchronous bilateral Krukenberg tumours in a young woman

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology and Oncology
• Surgical Oncology

Background:

• Linitis plastica (LP) is a rare, diffuse form of gastric adenocarcinoma.
• Krukenberg tumours are metastatic ovarian tumours originating from a primary gastrointestinal malignancy.
• Synchronous bilateral Krukenberg tumours are exceptionally rare, especially in conjunction with linitis plastica.

Observation:

• A young woman presented with linitis plastica and synchronous bilateral Krukenberg tumours.
• The patient's condition, characterized by peritoneal spread and dismal prognosis, posed significant treatment challenges.
• Despite the rarity and poor outlook, a complete surgical resection was achieved.

Findings:

• This case demonstrates the feasibility of complete resection for linitis plastica with bilateral Krukenberg tumours in a carefully selected patient.
• The successful surgical intervention challenges the notion of universal nonresectability in such advanced presentations.

Implications:

• Complete resection of linitis plastica with Krukenberg tumours, though rare, may represent a viable strategy to improve patient survival.
• This case highlights the importance of individualized surgical assessment in advanced gastrointestinal and ovarian malignancies.
• Further research into treatment protocols for this rare combination is warranted.