[Primary linitis plastica of the rectum (author's transl)]

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Oncology
• Pathology

Background:

• Linitis plastica is a rare form of cancer characterized by diffuse infiltration of the stomach wall.
• Primary linitis plastica of the rectum is exceptionally rare, with limited documented cases.
• Understanding its presentation and progression is crucial for early diagnosis and management.

Observation:

• A case of primary linitis plastica of the rectum is presented, contributing to the 20 previously reported instances.
• Diagnosis was confirmed after excluding gastric origin via surgical palpation and imaging.
• The patient presented with diarrhea, and absence of blood in stools, leading to diagnostic delay.

Findings:

• Primary rectal linitis plastica is associated with ulcerative colitis in approximately 20% of cases.
• The prognosis for this condition is generally poor.
• Reported maximal survival is 2.5 years, with a mean survival of about 4 months.

Implications:

• Highlights the importance of considering rare rectal cancers even with atypical presentations.
• Emphasizes the need for thorough diagnostic workups to differentiate primary rectal tumors from metastatic disease.
• Suggests that early detection and novel therapeutic strategies are critical to improve outcomes for patients with primary rectal linitis plastica.