JEJUNAL ADENOCARCINOMA : A CASE REPORT AND LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

Small bowel cancer is a rare entity , accounting a very small percentage of gastrointestinal tumors , although its incidence is increasing. Primary adenocarcinoma is the most common subtype. Due to its nonspecific presentations , diagnosis can be delayed resulting in advanced stage and poor prognosis. Case presentation We present the case of a 53-year-old female diagnosed with jejunal adenocarcinoma following evaluation for abdominal pain and vomiting. At the time of the diagnosis , our patient was already at a late stage with signs of peritoneal disease. She received preoperative chemotherapy and later underwent segmental intestinal resection. The postoperative course was uneventful, and the patient was referred for adjuvant chemotherapy. Conclusion Small bowel tumors , although rare , can be diagnostically challenging and should be included in the differential diagnosis of abdominal pain. Early diagnosis makes surgical resection easier and total prognosis better. Due to small bowel cancer’s incidence being low , very few studies have been published showing the optimal management. Given the fact that even though the incidence is low, it is gradually increasing, there is necessity in setting newer guidelines to help with small bowel cancer diagnosis and treatment. This case highlights the importance of considering small bowel adenocarcinoma in patients with unexplained gastrointestinal symptoms. Timely diagnosis and surgical management are critical for favorable outcomes. Keywords : jejunum , adenocarcinoma , small bowel carcinoma , small bowel tumors