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Endoscopic resection of primary rectal teratoma
J B Green1, A E Timmcke, W T Mitchell
1Department of Colon Surgery, Ochsner Clinic, New Orleans, Louisiana 70121.
The American Surgeon
|April 1, 1993
Summary
A rare benign cystic teratoma was found in the rectum of a 76-year-old woman. This case highlights the importance of endoscopic evaluation for unusual rectal masses.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Surgical Pathology
- Gynecologic Oncology
Background:
- Rectal masses can present with various symptoms, including postmenopausal bleeding.
- Benign cystic teratomas are rare neoplasms composed of derivatives from all three germ layers.
Observation:
- A 76-year-old female presented with postmenopausal bleeding and was found to have a 3-cm pedunculated rectal mass.
- Endoscopic examination revealed a smooth, glistening surface with visible hair fibers.
- The mass was successfully removed via snare polypectomy.
Findings:
- Histological examination confirmed the rectal mass as a benign cystic teratoma.
- Further surgical intervention revealed concurrent endometrial carcinoma and postmenopausal ovaries.
- This represents one of only 33 reported cases of primary rectal teratoma since 1865.
Implications:
- Primary rectal teratomas are exceptionally rare and can mimic other rectal pathologies.
- Endoscopic visualization and histological analysis are crucial for accurate diagnosis.
- This case underscores the need for comprehensive evaluation in patients with unexplained rectal findings, even in the presence of other gynecologic conditions.