CERVICAL LYMPHADENOPATHY AS INITIAL MANIFESTATION OF COLON CANCER

Abstract

Introduction: Colorectal cancer is one of the most frequent cancers worldwide, being the third most common cancer diagnosed and corresponding to the second cause of death by cancer. Approximately 25% of patients have already disseminated disease at the time of diagnosis.

Case Report: We present the case of a 68-year-old female patient presented with complaints of cervical mass. She was then submitted to a biopsy of the cervical adenopathy that revealed metastatic adenocarcinoma tissue with probable gastrointestinal origin. A work-up was performed and revealed a sigmoid colon adenocarcinoma. Due to associated morbidities she was submitted to supportive treatment.

Discussion: This case demonstrates the singularity of metastatic pattern in colon carcinoma. The mechanism of distant lymph node metastases in colorectal cancer still remains uncertain, nevertheless this represents an advanced stage of the disease that bears a poor prognosis.

Conclusion: Few reports in the literature showed a good outcome with primary tumor excision and adjuvant chemotherapy but this decision should be discussed in a multidisciplinary team in order to decide the best treatment option for each patient.