Synchronous association of rectal adenocarcinoma and three ileal carcinoids: A case report

Abstract

Background: Synchronous midgut carcinoids with gastrointestinal adenocarcinoma are a rare but recognised association. Case presentation: The patient, a 74 year old woman, underwent anterior resection for a low rectal adenocarcinoma. Intra-operatively 3 serosal deposits of tumour were noted in the distal ileum. Histology revealed these to be ileal carcinoids. Conclusion: During resection of a gastrointestinal tumour, a thorough inspection of the abdominal cavity should be undertaken to investigate the possibility of metastatic secondaries or a synchronous tumour as is reported in this case. © 2009 McHugh et al; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.