Isolated Abdominal Wall Recurrences in Colorectal Cancer: A Case Series and Review of Literature

Isolated abdominal wall recurrence of colorectal cancer (CRC) is an uncommon manifestation that can occur several years after curative resection of the primary tumor. These recurrences pose diagnostic and therapeutic challenges due to their rarity and varied presentation. We retrospectively reviewed the clinical records of three patients previously treated for CRC who subsequently developed isolated abdominal wall metastases. Data were collected from hospital records, radiological archives, and intraoperative documentation. All patients underwent biopsy confirmation, comprehensive staging with whole-body imaging, and treatment with curative-intent surgery. The abdominal wall recurrences presented after a prolonged disease-free interval and demonstrated diverse patterns, including port-site recurrence and chest wall involvement following multivisceral resection. None of the patients had concurrent systemic disease. Two patients required abdominal or chest wall reconstruction following excision. Postoperative therapy was individualized based on patient tolerance and clinical scenario. All three patients remained disease-free at follow-up. This case series underscores the importance of vigilant long-term surveillance, including serial carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) monitoring and imaging, for early detection of isolated abdominal wall metastases. In carefully selected patients, aggressive surgical management can result in favorable outcomes.