Adenosquamous carcinoma of the colon

Abstract

Adenocarcinoma accounts for most of the malignant tumors originating from the colon, whereas adenosquamous carcinoma is rare, accounting for less than 0.1% of all colorectal cancer. Herein, we present a case of adenosquamous carcinoma of the transverse colon. A 52-year-old male patient presented with a chief complaint of intermittent upper abdominal fullness and dull pain for 10 months. Colonoscopy showed a mass with obstruction at 40 cm from the anal verge and abdominal computed tomography scan showed a huge mass in the distal transverse colon with adjacent tissue invasion. A pathologic report demonstrated adenosquamous carcinoma and extended left hemicolectomy was performed as a International Union Against Cancer (UICC) Stage III advanced colon cancer with adenosquamous carcinoma histology. Postoperative recovery was uneventful and adjuvant chemotherapy was administered. We have reviewed the literature with regard to the clinical presentation, management, and prognosis of this tumor.