Hepatoid Adenocarcinoma of the Sigmoid Colon: A Challenging Diagnosis and Management

Abstract

Hepatoid adenocarcinoma of the sigmoid colon exists as a rare cancer type which resembles both hepatocellular carcinoma in its histological appearance and immunohistochemical markers. The medical field has a limited understanding of this distinct malignancy because hepatoid adenocarcinoma of the sigmoid colon appears rarely throughout the medical literature. This study presents key information on the diagnostic methods and treatment procedures for this aggressive cancer including early recognition and proper healthcare delivery. The patient is a 76-year-old woman who experienced constipation together with rectal bleeding. The sigmoid colon examination through colonoscopy showed a wide extensive lesion that combined ulcerative changes with proliferative growth. A biopsy examination of the lesion proved the presence of adenocarcinoma inside the sigmoid colon. Subsequently, the patient underwent sigmoidectomy. The tissue examination following surgery demonstrated moderately differentiated adenocarcinoma containing hepatoid differentiation to establish a diagnosis of hepatoid adenocarcinoma. A second test modality named immunohistochemical analysis reinforced the diagnosis by displaying characteristics related to both adenocarcinoma and hepatocellular carcinoma. Hepatoid adenocarcinoma of the sigmoid colon demonstrates rapid progression because of its aggressive nature which generally results in unfavorable predictions for patient treatment. The limited nature of this cancer presents two essential requirements: prompt diagnosis by suitable tests and surgical removal along with chemotherapy. Chemotherapy can act as an adjunct therapy for achieving the best possible result of tumor free survival. Early intervention stands as the most essential factor to advance the survival chances of patients diagnosed with this unusual adenocarcinoma subtype.