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Villous papilloma of the rectum presenting as infective gastro-enteritis
Scottish Medical Journal
|October 1, 1976
Abstract:
Three elderly patients have recently been admitted as emergencies to the Infection Unit of the Aberdeen Hospitals as presumed cases of infective gastro-enteritis. Investigation revealed the presence of a villous papilloma of the rectum in each case.
Insights
Elderly patients presenting with presumed infective gastroenteritis were found to have rectal villous papillomas. This highlights a potential diagnostic challenge in geriatric gastrointestinal presentations.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Oncology
- Geriatrics
Background:
- Infective gastroenteritis is a common cause of emergency admission in the elderly.
- Diagnostic challenges exist in differentiating infectious from neoplastic causes of gastrointestinal symptoms in older adults.
Observation:
- Three elderly patients were admitted to the Infection Unit with presumed infective gastroenteritis.
- Clinical presentation mimicked infectious causes of diarrhea and abdominal discomfort.
Findings:
- Rectal examination and subsequent investigation revealed a villous papilloma of the rectum in all three patients.
- Villous papillomas, typically benign rectal tumors, can present with symptoms mimicking gastroenteritis.
Implications:
- Villous papillomas should be considered in the differential diagnosis of unexplained gastrointestinal symptoms in the elderly.
- Early detection and management of rectal villous papillomas are crucial to prevent potential malignant transformation and improve patient outcomes.