Metastatic signet ring cell gastric carcinoma presenting as an infrarenal aortic aneurysm

Abstract

Metastases to liver, lungs, bone, and adrenal glands are common events in advanced gastric carcinoma. Occasionally, metastases to other parts of the body, such as the prostate gland [1] the gluteal muscle [2], or the cervix [3] are described. However, these are rare events in the natural history of the disease. We report an unusual case of a signet ring cell gastric carcinoma, initially presenting as an infrarenal aortic aneurysm. Following resection of the aneurysm, the spread of lymphangiosis carcinomatosa into the aortic wall and infiltration of signet ring cells into an adjacent lymph node were noted. The primary tumor, a signet ring cell gastric carcinoma, was detected by a subsequent esophago-gastro-duodenoscopy.