Journal of Minimal Access Surgery (Jan 2016)

Expect the unexpected: Endometriosis mimicking a rectal carcinoma in a post-menopausal lady

  • C K Jakhmola,
  • Ameet Kumar,
  • B S Sunita

DOI
https://doi.org/10.4103/0972-9941.169983
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 12, no. 2
pp. 179 – 181

Abstract

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Altered bowels habits along with rectal mass in an elderly would point toward a rectal cancer. We report an unusual case of a post-menopausal lady who presented with these complaints. We had difficulties in establishing a pre-operative diagnosis. With a tentative diagnosis of a rectal cancer/gastrointestinal stromal tumor, she underwent a laparoscopic anterior resection. On histopathology, this turned out to be endometriosis. Bowel endometriosis is an uncommon occurrence. That it occurred in a post-menopausal lady was a very unusual finding. We discuss the case, its management, and the relevant literature.

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