Primary linitis plastica carcinoma of the colon and rectum

Linitis plastica carcinoma (LPC) usually shows a scirrhous growth pattern with a severe stromal desmoplastic reaction. Another growth pattern showing lymphangiosis carcinomatosa rather than scirrhous growth pattern, however, was noted. This study was designed to clarify the clinical and pathologic characteristics of colorectal LPC.

Linitis plastica carcinoma was reviewed clinicopathologically and classified into two types according to the histologic growth pattern: The first was a scirrhous type (nine patients) and the second, a lymphangiosis type (three patients).

Grossly, the mucosal surface of the scirrhous type had a granular, cobblestone, gyriform-like appearance. The cancer cells were composed mainly of poorly differentiated or signet-ring cells and were accompanied by a severe stromal desmoplastic reaction; lymphatic permeation was not so marked. Most patients with this type of cancer died of peritonitis carcinomatosa. The mucosal surface of the lymphangiosis carcinomatosa had a smooth and glossy appearance. The cancer cells were composed mainly of moderately differentiated cells, frequently with a glandular formation. Stromal desmoplastic reaction was not so marked. The growth pattern was characterized by lymphangiosis carcinomatosa and marked venous invasion. All patients who had this type died of distant metastases.

Perhaps with earlier diagnosis and aggressive treatment, the peritoneal dissemination of scirrhous LPC and distant metastasis of lymphangiosis LPC may be minimized.