Five primary synchronous neoplasms of the gastrointestinal tract

Multiple primary malignant neoplasms in a single patient have been well documented in the literature over the past hundred years. The lesions can be limited to a single organ or involve multiple organ systems. It is relatively common for patients with colorectal carcinoma or carcinoid tumors to have more than one primary neoplasm. Colonic lesions can be synchronous or metachronous in presentation and colonic or extracolonic in location. We present a patient with five primary synchronous neoplasms of the gastrointestinal tract, involving the stomach, small bowel, and colon. The patient had no evidence of metastatic disease and underwent resection of all the lesions. This case illustrates the need for a thorough search for additional neoplasms in the treatment of patients with cancer.