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Persistent Lactic Acidosis Portending a Poor Prognosis in Extensive Metastatic Signet Ring Cell Carcinoma of the Cecum

  • 0Internal Medicine, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, USA.
Cureus +

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March 12, 2025

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March 12, 2025

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

This case report highlights severe type B lactic acidosis, a rare complication in patients with signet ring cell colon cancer. Early suspicion is crucial due to the poor prognosis associated with this metabolic complication.

Area Of Science

  • Oncology
  • Metabolic Complications

Background

  • Lactic acidosis is an uncommon metabolic complication of malignancy, frequently linked to high tumor burden and mortality.
  • It is more prevalent in hematologic malignancies than in solid tumors.

Observation

  • A case report details a patient with signet ring cell carcinoma of the cecum and peritoneal carcinomatosis.
  • The patient developed severe type B lactic acidosis following surgery, characterized by persistently elevated lactic acid levels.
  • Despite supportive care, the patient's condition deteriorated, leading to death.

Findings

  • Signet ring cell carcinoma of the cecum, an aggressive subtype, can present with severe type B lactic acidosis.
  • Cancer cells contribute to lactate overproduction via aerobic glycolysis (Warburg effect).

Implications

  • A high index of suspicion for type B lactic acidosis is warranted in oncology patients, particularly those with solid tumors.
  • Recognizing this complication is vital due to its association with a poor prognosis and high mortality rate in cancer patients.

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