Umbilical metastasis and colon cancer: A review on clinical features, current management and survival analysis

Abstract

Umbilical metastasis, also known as Sister Mary Joseph's nodule, is a rare clinical manifestation of colon cancer. It usually represents late stage with advanced disease. Herein, we report a case of colon cancer presenting with Mary Joseph's nodule. In the literature, the treatment modality is controversial and management is commonly palliative. However, few reports have suggested that surgical treatment might influence the prognosis. We reviewed the published literature on this phenomenon. Statistical analysis confirmed that colectomy did not appear to provide a survival outcome.