Retroperitoneal fibrosis mimicking a rectal tumor: report of a case

The study contained herein was undertaken to report an original case of retroperitoneal fibrosis that resembled a rectal tumor both symptomatically and radiologically.

Reported is a case of retrorectal fibrosis with a brief literature review of the topic.

Although many forms of retroperitoneal fibrosis have been reported, extension below the pelvic rim is very unusual. Compression of the rectum and right ureter, with constipation as a chief complaint, made this case presentation unusual. Although computerized tomographic findings and needle biopsies supported the diagnosis of retroperitoneal fibrosis, an exploratory laparotomy was necessary to rule out a malignancy and to release the ureter.

A fibrotic mass involving the retrorectal region may mimic a rectal tumor. To reach a final diagnosis, an exploratory laparotomy may be necessary, despite sophisticated evaluation techniques, because it is difficult to differentiate whether the mass is malignant.