Retrorectal tumors

Presacral tumors: A systematic review of literature

Presacral/Retrorectal tumors (RRT) are rare lesions that comprise a multitude of histological types. Data on surgical management are limited to case reports and small case series. The aim of the study was to provide a comprehensive review of the epidemiology, pathological subtypes, surgical approaches, and clinical outcomes. A PubMed search using terms "retrorectal tumor" and "presacral tumor" was used to identify articles reporting RRT of non-urological, non-gynecologic, and non-metastatic origin. Articles included were between 2015 and 2023. A total of 68 studies were included, comprising 570 patients. About 68.2% of patients were female, and the mean overall age of both sexes was 48.6 years. Based on histopathology, 466 patients (81.8%) had benign lesions, and 104 (18.2%) were malignant. In terms of surgical approach, 191 (33.5%) were treated anteriorly, 240 (42.1%) through a posterior approach, and 66 (11.6%) combined. The mean length of stay was 7.6 days. Patients treated using the posterior approach had a shorter length of stay (5.7 days) compared to the anterior and combined approaches. RRT are rare tumors of congenital nature with prevalence among the female sex. R0 resection is crucial in its management, and minimal access surgery appears to be a safer option in appropriate case selection.

Perirectal epidermoid cyst in a patient with sacrococcygeal scoliosis and anal sinus: A case report

BACKGROUND

Perirectal epidermoid cysts are rare masses arising from the ectodermal germ cell layer of the hindgut and are predominantly found in middle-aged women. It is often difficult to make an accurate diagnosis of these cysts and it is equally challenging to distinguish it from other developmental cysts.

CASE SUMMARY

We report the case of an 18-year-old female patient with a perirectal mass who presented to the hospital with constipation. The patient experienced sacrococcygeal falls and burns on the left buttocks during growth. Three-dimensional computed tomography scans indicated abnormal sacral vertebrae with the sacral canal partially enlarged and opened. Pelvic magnetic resonance imaging showed a 55 mm × 40 mm × 35 mm unilocular cystic mass in the perirectal space and a solitary sinus in the left ischiorectal fossa. The cyst was completely resected posteriorly using the sacrococcygeal approach. The pathology was verified to be an epidermoid cyst. The patient remained recurrence-free after 6 mo of follow-up.

CONCLUSION

Successful treatment of perirectal epidermoid cysts depends on comprehensive evaluation. This is significant for the surgical approach and prognosis.

OUP accepted manuscript

Aim

Tumours of the retrorectal space are uncommon, pathologically heterogeneous, and difficult to diagnose, with ongoing controversy over their surgical management. The aim of this study was to evaluate the surgical management of a consecutive series of patients who had undergone excision of primary retrorectal tumours (PRRTs) at a tertiary referral centre.

Method

Patients were identified from a prospectively maintained database between 1 March 2001 and 1 August 2021. Electronic patient records were reviewed for demographics, preoperative imaging, operative details, histology, and follow-up. A chi-squared test was used to assess the statistical significance of findings.

Results

A total of 144 patients were included in the study. Of these, 103 patients were female (71.5 per cent), 46 patients (31.9 per cent) presented incidentally, and 99 of the patients had tumours located below S3 (68.7 per cent). Overall, 76 patients underwent a transperineal approach (52.7 per cent) with the most common findings of a benign tailgut cyst occurring in 59 (40.9 per cent) of cases. Preoperative MRI predicted urovascular and pelvic sidewall involvement assessed intraoperatively with a sensitivity of 83.3 and 90 per cent and a specificity of 98.1 and 98 per cent respectively. Risk of malignancy in solid tumours was 31.4 versus 8.8 per cent in cystic tumours (relative risk 3.5, 95 per cent c.i. 1.6 to 7.6, P < 0.001). Major complications (Clavien–Dindo grade III and above) occurred in eight patients (5.6 per cent) and all-cause long-term mortality was 4.8 per cent (seven patients).

Discussion

PRRTs can be safely excised with minimal complications in specialized centres by surgical teams with the relevant expertise. This study questions the conservative management of cystic tumours and given the risk of solid tumour malignancy, supports surgical management.

Retrorectal tumors: A challenge for the surgeons

Retrorectal or presacral tumors are rare lesions located in the presacral area and considered as being derived from multiple embryological remnants. These tumors are classified as congenital, neurogenic, osseous, inflammatory, or miscellaneous. The most common among these are congenital benign lesions that present with non-specific symptoms, such as lower back pain and change in bowel habit. Although congenital and developmental tumors occur in younger patients, the median age of presentation is reported to be 45 years. Magnetic resonance imaging plays a crucial role in treatment management through accurate diagnosis of the lesion, the evaluation of invasion to adjacent structures, and the decision of appropriate surgical approach. The usefulness of preoperative biopsy is still debated; currently, it is only indicated for solid or heterogeneous tumors if it will alter the treatment management. Surgical resection with clear margins is considered the optimal treatment; described approaches are transabdominal, perineal, combined abdominoperineal, and minimally invasive. Benign retrorectal tumors have favorable long-term outcomes with a low incidence of recurrence, whereas malignant tumors have a potential for distant organ metastasis in addition to local recurrence.

Epidemiology, diagnostic approach and therapeutic management of tailgut cysts: A systematic review

BACKGROUND

Tailgut cysts (TGCs) are benign congenital abnormalities that usually present with non-specific symptoms, constituting a diagnostic dilemma for physicians. The aim of this study was to systematically review the literature concerning clinical manifestations, diagnostic modalities and histologic findings of TGCs and highlight current knowledge on therapeutic management of this rare entity.

METHODS

PubMed and Embase databases were systematically searched by two independent investigators (last search 18 February 2021) for studies concerning TGCs published in the past two decades.

RESULTS

Totally, 144 articles, including 135 case reports and 9 case series, met our inclusion criteria. One hundred eighty-four patients were included (3:1/female:male) with an age of 42.3 ± 18.7 years (mean, SD), while 5 cases concerned new-born infants. Pain was the prevailing clinical manifestation (41.8%), whereas 16.8% were asymptomatic. MRI and CT were utilized for diagnosis in 58.7% and 54.7% of cases, respectively. The majority of cysts were multilocular, while ciliated columnar epithelium and smooth muscles of the cyst wall were the prevailed histological findings. Malignant degeneration of TGCs was reported in 32.1% of cases, while carcinoid tumours were the most frequent malignancies. Surgical resection was performed in 155 cases, while laparoscopic and robotic approach was preferred in 18 and 2 cases, respectively. A posterior approach was implemented in 80.9%, anterior technique in 9% and combined technique in 6.7% of cases. Postoperative complications and recurrence of the cystic lesion were reported in 17.4% and 7.6% of cases, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

TGCs constitute a dilemma for the physicians. Surgical resection comprises the ultimate treatment to avoid complications or malignant transformation of the cyst. Concrete follow-up strategies and optimal therapeutic options should be outlined through consensus guidelines and at the time being, such decisions can be made only on the basis of extrapolation and on a case-by-case approach.

Multicenter Analysis of Presacral Neuroendocrine Neoplasms-Clinicopathological Characterization and Treatment Outcomes of a Rare Disease

Background and Aims

Neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs) of the presacral space are an extremely rare disease entity with largely unknown outcome and no established standard of care treatment. Therefore, we wanted to analyze clinical presentation, histopathological findings, treatment outcomes, and prognosis in a multicentric patient cohort.

Methods

We searched local databases of six German NEN centers for patients with presacral NEN. Retrospective descriptive analyses of age, sex, stage at diagnosis, symptoms, grade, immunohistochemical investigations, biomarkers, treatment, and treatment outcome were performed. Kaplan-Meier analysis was used to determine median overall survival.

Results

We identified 17 patients (11 female, 6 male) with a median age of 50 years (range, 35-66) at diagnosis. Twelve cases presented initially with distant metastases including bone metastases in nine cases. On pathological review the majority of patients had well-differentiated G2 tumors. Immunohistochemical profile resembled rectal NENs. All but one patient had non-functioning tumors. Somatostatin receptor imaging was positive in 14 of 15 investigated cases. Eight patients were treated surgically including palliative resections; 14 patients received somatostatin analogs with limited efficacy. With 14 PRRTs completed, 79% showed clinical benefit, whereas only one patient with neuroendocrine carcinoma (NEC) responded to chemotherapy. Treatment with everolimus in three patients was not successful, whereas cabozantinib resulted in a disease stabilization in a heavily pretreated patient. During a median observation period of 44.5 months, 6 patients died. Median overall survival was not reached.

Conclusion

Presacral NEN are histopathologically similar to rectal NENs. Presacral NEN should be considered as possible primary in NEN of unknown primary. The majority of tumors is non-functioning and somatostatin receptor positive. PRRT demonstrated promising activity; tyrosine kinase inhibitors warrant further investigations. Further molecular characterization and prospective evaluation of this rare tumor entity are needed.

Retrorectal cystic hamartoma: A case report

Retrorectal tumors are a rare group of tumors that can be of benign or malignant origin, the differential diagnosis concerns all retrorectal tumors. We report a case of a huge retrorectal cystic hamartoma in which surgical excision was performed. A 58 years-old female presented with a low back pain and constipation. Digital rectal examination found a renitent cystic mass compressing the posterior wall of the rectum. Colonoscopy showed a tumor compressing the rectum. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan showed a presacral cystic formation. Surgical resection using laparotomy was performed. The patient made a full recovery and was released eight days after the surgery. Histological examination of the mass revealed a retrorectal cystic hamartoma.

Rare squamous cell carcinoma arising from a presacral epidermoid cyst: A case report

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Presacral epidermoid cysts are extremely rare and require further study.

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Thorough preoperative imaging evaluation is important for complete resection.

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Multidisciplinary treatments may be effective.

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Presacral epidermoid cysts may be malignant.

Introduction

Presacral epidermoid cysts are uncommon, usually benign cysts caused by developmental abnormalities in the fetal period. We present a rare case of squamous cell carcinoma arising from a presacral epidermoid cyst.

Presentation of case

A 59-year-old woman complained of tenesmus and discomfort in the buttocks. Computed tomography revealed a 50-mm well-defined cystic mass in the presacrum and a 70-mm solid mass extending from the cyst into the rectum, vagina, and left sciatic spine. On T1-weighted magnetic resonance images, the cyst was unilocular and the mass was marginated with low intensity. On T2-weighted images, the mass had high intensity. A malignant presacral developmental cyst was diagnosed, without obvious metastasis. Using abdominal and parasacral approaches, Hartmann’s operation was performed with multiorgan resection, including the sacrum, coccyx, left sciatic spine, internal obturator muscle, rectum, and uterine appendage. Histopathology of the excised specimen revealed a squamous cell carcinoma originating from the presacral epidermoid cyst.

Discussion

Reports of malignant transformation of epidermoid cysts in the presacral space, as in the present case, are extremely rare. Because of their unusual location and slow growth, epidermoid cysts tend to remain asymptomatic. Because the patient had a malignant tumor with suspected invasion of adjacent organs, combination surgery was selected.

Conclusion

Although further research is required, presacral epidermoid cysts are extremely rare and may be malignant. Thorough preoperative image evaluation is crucial for complete resection.

Pediatric congenital buttock sinus tract:10-year experience in a single institution

PURPOSE

To review our experience with pediatric congenital buttock sinus tract, and to conclude the clinical characteristics and management of the disease.

METHODS

Twenty-two pediatric patients diagnosed with congenital buttock sinus tract were included. Medical records were reviewed, and the patients were followed up. Continuous variables were presented by median and range. Categorical variables were presented as frequencies and percentages.

RESULTS

Among the 22 patients, there were 8 boys (36.4%) and 14 girls (63.6%). The median first onset age was 42 months, and the range was 5 months to 12 years old. Admission age was 69.5 months, with a range from 14 months to 12 years old. Overall prior treatment time was 11 months, ranging from 3 months to 11 years. Twenty-one patients had definite congenital dimples since birth, and later manifested with infection through the dimple. All patients came to the doctor with complaint of the infection. The number of invasive procedures ranged from 0 to 5, with an average of 2. Radiology could exactly display the morphology and show the termination as a retrorectal cyst. The surgical procedure was adopted trans-fistula tract, and the pathological results showed a dermoid cyst in 11 patients and an epidermoid cyst in 10 patients. During the follow-up period of 34.5 months (range, 2 months to 8 years), 19 patients were uneventful and 3 patients suffered recurrence. Two of them underwent a second operation and had no recurrence ever since. The third patient did not receive a second operation, and the refractory infection was still present.

CONCLUSIONS

Pediatric congenital buttock sinus tract is rare and has a female predominance in the morbidity. Patients have a distinctive congenital dimple on the buttock with recurrent infection, and there usually exists a congenital sinus tract from the dimple to the retrorectal space. Total excision is the only method for the cure. The nature of the disease is a retrorectal developing dermoid cyst or epidermoid cyst.

Alcohol injection for nonsurgical management of tailgut cyst in a middle-aged woman: A case report

Managing recurrent tailgut cyst in a patient who is refraining from the definitive surgical en bloc resection can be challenging. Therefore, in this case report we outlined a less invasive approach which is computed tomography-guided aspiration with alcohol injection which resulted in prolongation of symptoms free period in our patient.

Retrorectal Tumors in Adults: A 10-Year Retrospective Study

Due to the rarity and large diversity of the primary retrorectal tumors (RTs), the diagnoses are often difficult and they can be misdiagnosed. We present our experience in light of scarce information available on the clinical manifestations of RTs. The retrospective study included 17 patients diagnosed as RTs between January 2004 and January 2014. Demographic characteristics, length of symptoms, clinical findings, diagnostic methods, evaluations on the treatment procedures and postoperative periods, pathology, complications, and length of hospital stay were recorded. A mean of 1.7 of patients were diagnosed with RTs annually in our hospital. Patients comprised 12 females and 5 males. Pain and discomfort were the most common symptoms at presentation. All the lesions were evaluated by using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT), and all the patients were treated operatively. Based on the preoperative MRI or CT findings, an anterior approach was performed in 7 patients, a posterior approach in 6 patients, and combined approach in 4 patients. Mean size of tumors was 9.2 ± 4.3 cm. Epidermoid cyst (n = 8) was the most common tumor. Except for 1 case of liposarcoma, 16 tumors were confirmed to be of benign nature in histologic examination. Mean length of hospital stay 12.4 ± 6.8 days. Retrorectal tumors are heterogeneous and lead to diagnostic difficulties. A high index of clinical suspicion is needed for diagnosis. Preoperative imaging may be helpful in determining the course of treatment. Total excision of a retrorectal tumor may alleviate pressure symptoms and confirm the diagnosis.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma following Epidermoid Cyst in the Buttock

In the field of plastic surgery, subcutaneous masses in the buttocks are frequently observed. However, squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) after epidermoid cyst, which appears in the presacral space, is extremely rare. This report described a case of a 71-year-old woman, who previously received a skin incision by a doctor for treating a cystic lesion in the buttock; she was diagnosed with SCC by preoperative biopsy at the authors' department. In addition, computed tomography suspected that the tumor originated in the presacral space. Under general anesthesia, an extended resection of the malignant tumor with gastrointestinal surgery was performed. After resection, the defect of buttocks region was reconstructed with a V-Y advancement gluteus maximus myocutaneous flap. After pathological examination the tumor was diagnosed as SCC after epidermoid cyst; peplomycin sulfate at 50 mg/d was administered intramuscularly for 2 weeks as chemotherapy. No wound complications were observed after surgery, and no recurrence was noted for 5 years. For managing tumor in the gluteal region, a possibility of malignancy must be considered, and thorough radiographic studies must be pursued before surgery.

A giant sacrococcygeal teratoma in adult female: A case report

INTRODUCTION

Sacrococcygealteratoma is very rare in adults with only few cases reported in literature. It is a slow growing benign cystic tumor with 1-2% chance for malignant transformation and may attain a huge size causing pressure effect on pelvic and intra-abdominal organs. When grows caudally, it causes discomfort, skin excoriation and cosmetic disfigurement.

PRESENTATION OF CASE

We present a giant, long standing Sacrococcygeal teratoma in an adult female patient which caused her significant obstructing lower gastrointestinal and urinary symptoms besides the discomfort and disfigurement of the sacral region.

DISCUSSION

Sacrococcygeal teratomas are commonly present early in life but are very rare to be seen in adults with such a huge size in such a place where it interfered with patient sitting and sleeping. Diagnosis of our case was suspected by clinical examination, ultrasound and MRI while histopathology confirmed the diagnosis. It was completely excised along with the coccyx with primary wound closure and had a good postoperative recovery. Up till now, 18 months follow-up using clinical, biochemical and radiological assessment revealed no evidence of recurrence.

CONCLUSION

Sacococcygeal teratoma should be considered in the differential diagnosis of large pelvic masses in adults. In the presence of an extra-corporal and deep intra pelvic extension, we recommend the posterior perineal approach for excision as it has convenient control over the mass during surgery and good cosmetic results.

Retrorectal Tumors: A Comprehensive Literature Review

IMPORTANCE

Retrorectal tumors are rare lesions that comprise a multitude of histologic types. Reports are limited to small single-institution case series, and recommendations on the ideal surgical approaches are lacking.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of the study was to provide a comprehensive review of the epidemiology, pathologic subtypes, surgical approaches, and clinical outcomes of retrorectal tumors.

EVIDENCE REVIEW

We conducted a review of the literature using PubMed and searched the reference lists of published studies.

RESULTS

A total of 341 studies comprising 1708 patients were included. Overall, 68 % of patients were female. The mean age was 44.6 ± 13.7 years. Of all patients, 1194 (70 %) had benign lesions, and 514 patients (30 %) had malignant tumors. Congenital tumors (60.5 %) were the most frequent histologic type. Other pathologic types were neurogenic tumors (14.8 %), osseous tumors (3.1 %), inflammatory tumors (2.6 %), and miscellaneous tumors (19.1 %). Biopsy was performed in 27 % of the patients. Of these patients, incorrect diagnoses occurred in 44 %. An anterior surgical approach (AA) was performed in 299 patients (35 %); a posterior approach (PA) was performed in 443 (52 %), and a combined approach (CA) was performed in 119 patients (14 %). The mean length of stay (LOS) of PA was 7 ± 5 days compared to 8 ± 7 days for AA and 11 ± 7 days for CA (p < 0.05). The overall morbidity rate was 13.2 %: 19.3 % associated with anterior approach, 7.2 % associated with posterior approach, and 24.7 % after a combined approach (p < 0.05). Overall postoperative recurrence rate was 21.6 %; 6.7 % after an anterior approach, 26.6 % after a posterior approach, and 28.6 % after a combined approach (p < 0.05). A minimally invasive approach (MIS) was employed in 83 patients. MIS provided shorter hospital stays than open surgery (4 ± 2 vs. 9 ± 7 days; p < 0.05). Differences in complication rate were 19.8 % in MIS and 12.2 % in open surgery and not statistically significant.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

Retrorectal tumors are most commonly benign in etiology, of a congenital nature, and have a female predominance. Complete surgical resection is the cornerstone of retrorectal tumor management. A minimal access surgery approach, when feasible, appears to be a safe option for the management of retrorectal tumors, with shorter operative time and length of stay.

Primary Cystic Lesions of the Retrorectal Space: MRI Evaluation and Clinical Assessment

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to assess the a priori chance that primary cystic lesions of the retrorectal space are malignant and to investigate MRI characteristics that indicate malignancy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients referred to a center for colorectal surgery were recruited from 2000 to 2014. Lesions were proven by clinical assessment and histopathology. MRI was performed at 1.5 T with examinations evaluated by two radiologists. Interobserver agreement was assessed (Cohen kappa) and differences between malignant and benign lesions calculated (Fisher exact test).

RESULTS

Twenty-eight patients (22 women, six men; age range, 18-70 years) with 31 lesions were included. Lesions were categorized as tailgut cysts (n = 16, 52%), teratomas (n = 9, 29%), lesions of colorectal origin (n = 4, 13%), or neurogenic lesions (n = 2, 6%). Five patients (18%) had malignant lesions. Colorectal lesions had the highest percentage of malignancy (3/4, 75%). A solid tissue component was found in all five (100%) malignant lesions and two (8%) of the benign lesions, which were both teratomas (p < 0.05). Sensitivity and specificity for malignancy according to the presence of a solid tissue component was 100% (5/5) and 92% (24/26). For unilocularity, multilocularity, debris, septa, and wall thickening, differences were not significant. Interobserver agreement was excellent (κ = 1) for all characteristics except debris (κ = 0.795).

CONCLUSION

The majority of retrorectal cystic lesions are benign. The presence of a solid tissue component should raise suspicion for malignancy.

Diagnosis of Tailgut Cyst in Gynecologic Patients: Systematic Review of the Literature

Tailgut cysts, also called retrorectal cystic hamartomas, are rare findings that usually occur in the retrorectal space. The incidence is estimated to be about 1 in 40,000.

The aim of our review is to evaluate the potential pitfalls in the diagnosis of this rare pathologic condition, according to diagnostic procedures for this rare but misleading and subtle entity.

We conducted a Medline literature review of the English literature discussing tailgut cysts in female patients. We concentrated on imaging technology used for diagnosis in gynecologic patients. For our search, we used the key words “tailgut cyst”, “retrorectal cystic hamartoma”, “gynecology”, focusing on clinical presentation, imaging technology used for diagnosis, presence of malignancy, and misdiagnosis with more common gynecologic pathology.

Our search revealed 143 articles during the years 1975–2016 and, of these, 30 articles describing 91 female patients were considered.

We concluded that tailgut cyst should be included in the differential diagnosis of pelvic lesions in gynecologic patients.

Retrorectal tumour simulating vaginal birth: an exceptional case of emergency surgery indication

Cystic retrorectal tumours are a very rare entity that pose a problem in differential diagnosis between congenital cyst and other lesions. We present a 49-year-old female patient presenting a perineal bulge which was discovered simulating a vaginal birth associated with prolapsed haemorrhoids grade IV. The interest of this case resides in the surgical indication of a big presacral cyst demonstrated via CT causing acute intense pain due to pelvic organ compression, as no emergent surgery management has been reported up to date.

Imaging Diagnosis of a Rare Presacral Tumour

Background

Primary tumors in the presacral (retrorectal) space are extremely rare in adults, with an estimated incidence of 0.0025 to 0.014 in large referral centers. Congenital varieties are most common and comprise two thirds of these tumors. Primary retroperitoneal sarcomas in the pelvic region are extremely rare. We report the ultrasound and the corresponding Computed Tomography (CT) features of a rare presacral fibrosarcoma in an adult woman, in whom the diagnosis was confirmed by a CT-guided biopsy.

Case Report

A 54-year-old woman presented with a history of lumbar and perineal pain and painful defecation. Rectal examination revealed a hard mass in the retrorectal space. The patient was referred for imaging and a laboratory evaluation with a clinical diagnosis of a presacral mass. An abdominal ultrasound was followed by laboratory evaluation of routine hematological and hepato-renal parameters, abdomino-pelvic CT and a CT-guided biopsy.

The imaging studies showed a presacral solid mass with nodular calcifications. There was conspicuous absence of cystic or adipose contents and of sacral erosion/destruction. However, hepatic metastasis was present. All imaging features suggested a retroperitoneal sarcoma in the pelvic region with metastases to the liver. The diagnosis was confirmed by CT-guided biopsy.

Conclusions

We are reporting a new case of a very rare entity, a presacral fibrosarcoma. The imaging approach and the analysis leading to an appropriate differential diagnosis and final diagnosis is highlighted in our case report.

A giant pararectal cyst successfully treated by robotic surgery

A 50 year-old patient was referred to our department with severe obstructive lower urinary tract symptoms, suprapubic pain and rectal fullness that started after a perianal fistula operation performed one year ago. Radiologic evaluation showed a large pararectal cystic lesion with septa formation on the right side compressing the bladder and prostate. Aspiration of the cystic fluid attempted initially but was not successful. A robotic transperitoneal approach was applied and the cyst was excised completely. On 1-year follow-up, patient did not have any symptoms and cyst was completely disappeared on radiology.

Effects of phycoerythrin from Gracilaria lemaneiformis in proliferation and apoptosis of SW480 cells

We studied phycoerythrin (PE) in human SW480 tumor cells and the underlying molecular mechanisms of action. PE inhibited cell proliferation as evidenced by CCK-8 assay. The IC50 values of phycoerythrin were 48.2 and 27.4 µg/ml for 24 and 48 h of exposure, respectively. PE induced apoptosis and cell cycle arrest in SW480 cells as observed under electron microscopy and with flow cytometry. Apoptosis increased from 5.1 (controls) to 39.0% in 80.0 µg/ml PE-treated cells. Differences in protein expression were identified using proteomic techniques. Protein spots (1018±60 and 1010±60) were resolved in PE-treated and untreated group. Forty differential protein spots were analyzed with MALDI-TOF-MS, including GRP78 and NPM1. The expression as measured by qPCR and western blotting agreed with data from two-dimensional electrophoresis. GRP78, NPM1, MTHSP75, Ezrin and Annexin A2 were decreased and HSP60 was increased after PE treatment, indicating that PE may target multiple proteins to induce apoptosis.

Treatment of tailgut cysts by extended distal rectal segmental resection with rectoanal anastomosis

PURPOSE

Complete surgical resection is the treatment of choice for tailgut cysts, because of their malignant potential and tendency to regrow if incompletely resected. We report our experience of treating patients with tailgut cysts, and discuss diagnostics, surgical approaches, and follow-up.

METHODS

We performed extended distal rectal segmental resection of the tailgut cyst, with rectoanal anastomosis. We report the clinical, radiological, pathological, and surgical findings, describe the procedures performed, and summarize follow-up data.

RESULTS

Two patients underwent en-bloc resection of a tailgut cyst, the adjacent part of the levator muscle, and the distal rectal segment, followed by an end-to-end rectoanal anastomosis. There was no evidence of anastomotic leakage postoperatively. At the time of writing, our patients were relapse-free with no, or non-limiting, symptoms of anal incontinence, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

This surgical approach appears to have a low complication rate and good recovery outcomes. Moreover, as the sphincter is preserved, so is the postoperative anorectal function. This approach could result in a low recurrence rate.

Management approach and surgical strategies for retrorectal tumours: a systematic review

AIM

The management strategy for retrorectal tumours is complex. Due to their rarity, few surgeons have expertise in management.

METHOD

A systematic literature review was conducted using the PubMed database. English language publications in the years 2011-2015 that assessed preoperative management, surgical strategies and chemoradiotherapy for presacral tumours were included. Two hundred and fifty-one abstracts were screened of which 88 met the inclusion criteria. After review of the full text, this resulted in a final list of 42 studies eligible for review.

RESULTS

In all, 932 patients (63.2% female, 36.8% male; P < 0.01) with a retrorectal tumour were identified. Most were benign (65.9% vs. 33.7%, P < 0.01). Imaging distinguished benign from malignant lesions in 88.1% of cases; preoperative biopsy was superior to imaging in providing an accurate definitive diagnosis (91.3% vs. 61.4%, P < 0.05) with negligible seeding risk. Biopsy should be performed in solid tumours. It is useful in guiding neoadjuvant therapy for gastrointestinal stromal tumours, sarcomas and desmoid type fibromatosis and may alter the management strategy in cases of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma and metastases. Biopsies for cystic lesions are not recommended. The gold standard in imaging is MRI. The posterior Kraske procedure is the most common surgical approach. Overall, the reported recurrence rate was 19.7%.

CONCLUSION

This review evaluated the management strategies for retrorectal tumours. A preoperative biopsy should be performed for solid tumours. MRI is the most useful imaging modality. Surgery is the mainstay of treatment. There is limited information on robotic surgery, single-port surgery, transanal endoscopic microsurgery, chemoradiotherapy and reconstruction.

Benign and malignant tumors of the rectum and perirectal region

Although most rectal masses are histologically characterized as adenocarcinomas, the rectum and perirectal region can be affected by a wide variety of tumors and tumor-like conditions that can mimic the symptoms caused by rectal adenocarcinoma, including mucosal or submucosal rectal tumors such as lymphoma, gastrointestinal stromal tumor, leiomyosarcoma, neuroendocrine tumor, hemangioma, and melanoma, as well as tumors of the perirectal region such as developmental cyst, neurogenic tumor, osseous tumor, and other miscellaneous conditions. As a group, tumors of the rectum are considerably different from the group of tumors that arise in the perirectal region: they are most often neoplastic, symptomatic, and malignant, whereas tumors arising in the perirectal region are most commonly congenital, asymptomatic, and benign. Proctoscopy with biopsy is the most important method for the diagnosis of rectal tumors, but this procedure cannot determine the precise intramural extension of a rectal tumor and cannot accurately distinguish submucosal and intramural tumors from extramural tumors. Cross-sectional imaging, especially transrectal ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging, allows evaluation of the entire bowel wall thickness and the perirectal tissues, helping further characterize these tumors. Recognition of the existence of these masses and their key clinical and imaging features is crucial for clinicians to accurately diagnose and appropriately manage these conditions.

A Tailgut Cyst Diagnosed by Endoscopic Ultrasound-Guided Fine-Needle Aspiration

Tailgut cysts are rare developmental cysts. Surgery has been the primary method of diagnosis and treatment of these cysts, but endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) has recently been used to establish diagnosis. Only 2 cases of tailgut cyst diagnosed by EUS-guided FNA have been reported. We present a woman in her fourth decade who presented for evaluation of perirectal mass. EUS-guided fine-needle aspiration (FNA) helped establish the diagnosis of tailgut cyst. The patient opted for observation rather than surgery.

Perineal approach for surgical treatment in a patient with retro-rectal tumor: a case report and review of the literature

BACKGROUND

Retrorectal tumors in adults are very rare and little known condition. These tumors, often misdiagnosed or mistreated, should be completely excised because of the potential for malignancy or infection. A suitable operative approach is the key to the successful surgical management.

CASE PRESENTATION

We report the case of a 45-year-old Arab male who presented with chronic pelvic pain accompanied by straining to defecate and dysuria. The clinical examination showed a painless mass in the left perineal area. Pelvic magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography scan demonstrated a huge and well-limited pelvic mass causing displacement and compression of the rectum and bladder. Although the large size of the mass (>7 cm in the greater diameter), it was successfully and completely excised through only perineal approach without undertaking coccygectomy or sacrectomy. The histopathological study revealed a low-grade leiomyosarcoma. The patient is currently in 4-years follow-up with no signs of recurrence or metastasis.

CONCLUSION

Even large retro-rectal tumors may be successfully excised by the perineal approach especially in carefully selected patients, but require extensive knowledge of pelvic anatomy and expertise in pelvic surgery.

Transsacrococcygeal Approach for Resection of Retrorectal Tumors

Retrorectal tumors, are a rare and interesting entity, traditionally managed with surgery. The surgical approach is a key to get an easy and safe access. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the results of resection by a transsacrococcygeal approach. Thirty-six patients had retrorectal tumors resected by a transsacrococcygeal approach in our department. All the tumors were en bloc resected, irrespective of size and anatomical depth. The clinic data were retrospectively reviewed. Tumor mean size was 10 ± 4.4 cm. In 16 cases, tumors were 10 cm or more in size. The largest tumor measured 20 cm. The estimated mean blood loss was 130 ml. No mortality and severe postoperative complications were observed. The most significant issues were wound infection and delayed healing. Pathology showed 15 cases of epidermal cysts, two cases of enterogenous cyst, one case of bronchogenic cyst, 12cases of teratoma, two cases of schwannoma, two cases of low-grade malignant fibrous myxoma, one case of aggressive angiomyxoma, one case of desmoid tumor. The trans-sacrococcygeal approach gives an easy access and good visualization with fewer complications. This surgical approach shows to be safe and effective for resection of retrorectal tumors.

Laparoscopic Assisted Management of a Pararectal Tail Gut Cyst

Here, we discuss an unusual case of a pararectal tail gut cyst, initially misdiagnosed to be an ischiorectal abscess which was presented to us after being operated for incision and drainage. It was excised by a laparoscopic assisted approach. In such cases, a digital examination, transrectal ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI can help in the diagnosis. A combined approach is useful to locate and remove the cyst intact; however, a lower approach is useful for low-lying lesions. Histopathology can differentiate between a rectal duplication cyst and a tail gut cyst.

Laparoscopic Approach to Type IV Sacrococcygeal Teratoma in an Adult

Presacral teratoma is extremely rare in adults. A 35-year-old lady was diagnosed with presacral teratoma on MRI abdomen and pelvis. The tumour was enucleated laparoscopically, this being the first such case to be reported in India and fifth case in world literature. Though traditionally, anterior approach of the presacral tumours meant laparotomy, but recently, laparoscopy has been reported as a safe and effective option for these tumours with the advantages of a magnified view in the narrow pelvis, easier development of natural planes by pneumoperitoneum, faster recovery and less complications if expertise is available.

Magnetic resonance imaging of pediatric pelvic masses

Both benign and malignant pelvic masses are encountered in the pediatric population. Although ultrasonography remains the modality of choice for initial evaluation of a pediatric pelvic mass, in selected cases magnetic resonance (MR) imaging can add important diagnostic information. MR imaging has several advantages over ultrasonography and computed tomography, including superior contrast resolution and an ability to characterize abnormalities based on unique tissue characteristics. MR evaluation assists in lesion characterization, presurgical planning, and staging when a malignancy is suspected. MR imaging also offers a nonionizing imaging modality for long-term follow-up of patients undergoing therapy for malignant pelvic masses.

Preoperative assessment of retrorectal tumours

Background

Retrorectal tumours present diagnostic and surgical challenges. This study aimed to identify whether preoperative imaging and/or biopsy provide diagnostic accuracy.

Methods

A consecutive series of patients who had undergone excision of a retrorectal tumour were identified from a database (2002–2013). Details of patient demographics, preoperative presentation, imaging, biopsy, surgical procedure, and gross and microscopic pathology were reviewed. Preoperative imaging and/or biopsies were compared with eventual pathology findings.

Results

In total, 76 patients were identified, all of whom had undergone preoperative cross-sectional imaging whereas only 22 had preoperative biopsy. Imaging correctly discriminated benign from malignant tumours in 72 of the 76 patients (specificity 97 per cent, sensitivity 88 per cent, positive predictive value 88 per cent and negative predictive value 97 per cent). The corresponding values for preoperative biopsy (benign versus malignant) were 100, 83, 100 and 93 per cent. None of the four patients who were assessed incorrectly as having benign or malignant disease on imaging would have undergone an alternative procedure had this been known before surgery. Preoperative biopsy did not significantly influence patient management, and the absence of preoperative biopsy had no detrimental effect; a definitive preoperative histological diagnosis would not have influenced subsequent management.

Conclusion

Preoperative imaging was accurate in the assessment of retrorectal tumours, whereas biopsy did not add to the surgical strategy.

Identification of a mature cystic teratoma mimicking a presacral tumor by transsacral surgery in a young female: A case report

The current case report presents an account of a unique surgical procedure performed to remove an extremely rare occurrence of a transsacral abdominal mass from a 24-year-old female. The patient presented with subtle sacrococcygeal pain for two months and a presacral abdominal mass derived from the right ovary. The mass was misdiagnosed as a presacral tumor based on the results of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) performed prior to the surgery. The patient also exhibited the symptoms commonly caused by a presacral mass, however, during the surgery, the mass was not initially located under the sacrum. An ultrasound examination and an analysis of an intraoperative frozen section indicated that the mass was a mature cystic teratoma (MCT) of the ovary, located in the peritoneal cavity between the rectum and uterus. The mass was successfully resected and removed from the affected ovary through the abdominal cavity via the sacral region. A pathological examination of the tumor section confirmed a diagnosis of a MCT of the ovary.

Surgical resection of retrorectal tumours in adults: long-term results in 47 patients

AIM

Retrorectal tumours (RT) are uncommon, and diagnosis and management remain difficult. The aim of this study was to evaluate the results of the surgical management of RT in our institution.

METHOD

Medical notes of all patients operated on for RT were reviewed. Clinical, radiological, surgical, histological data as well as morbidity and long-term results were noted.

RESULTS

Forty-seven patients [34 women (72%), mean age 45.8 (range 17-85) years] underwent surgery for RT between 1997 and 2011. The commonest symptoms were pain (n = 31) and suppuration (n = 10). Thirty-nine (83%) patients underwent preoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Malignant lesions exhibited typical characteristics on MRI including heterogeneity (n = 5, 83%), solid appearance (n = 4, 67%), a low-T1 signal and high-T2 intensity (n = 5, 83%), enhancement after gadolinium injection (n = 5, 83%), irregular margin (n = 4, 67%) and extension above S3 (i = 5, 83%). A Kraske approach was used in 42 (89%) patients with resection of the coccyx in 25 (60%) and an abdominal or combined approach for the remaining five. Four patients developed complications (two haematoma, two abscess), but only one (haematoma) required reoperation. Histological examination showed 38 (80.9%) benign lesions. After a median follow-up of 71 (2-168) months, 5-year disease-free survival was 75% for malignant lesions and 93.1% for benign lesions (P = 0.023). Four (4/42; 9.5%) patients had moderate perineal pain after a Kraske approach, while no anal dysfunction was seen.

CONCLUSION

Magnetic resonance imaging was the most helpful investigation for retrorectal tumours. The posterior trans-sacrococcygeal approach is the procedure of choice for complete resection for most, especially for benign and cystic lesions without extension above S2.

Presacral tumours: a rare case of a dermoid cyst in a paediatric patient

Presacral tumours are considered very rare tumours with their incidence being around 1:40 000. Presacral dermoid tumours, part of the family of presacral tumours, usually present in the female adult population. They are benign tumours arising from all the three germ cell layers. Presentation in a paediatric population, defined as an individual under the age of 18 years, is extremely rare. A 15-year-old girl presented with abdominal pain present for 5 years diagnosed as a somatisation disorder. Upon further investigation with abdominal CT and MRI a diagnosis of a presacral mass was made. A laparoscopic-assisted transabdominal excision of the mass was performed and histopathology confirmed the radiological suspicion of a presacral dermoid cyst. As there are no reports of a presacral dermoid cysts being excised and reported in the paediatric surgical literature, we hope to highlight this pathology as a potential cause of abdominal pain in the paediatric population.

Retroperitoneal pelvic cyst: a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge

BACKGROUND

Retroperitoneal cysts can be asymptomatic or can present with vague symptoms such as abdominal pain or distension. Their clinical implications vary significantly.

CASE

A 45-year-old woman, gravida 2, para 2, presented with vague, non-specific pelvic symptomatology. Imaging indicated a right-sided pelvic cyst 5 cm in diameter. At laparoscopy a retroperitoneal cyst was identified, with a normal pelvis and intra-abdominal organs. No attempt was made at laparoscopy to drain, biopsy, or excise the cyst. CT-guided biopsy of the cyst was performed and small intestine mucosa was identified with goblet cells and smooth muscle. Repeat biopsy confirmed areas of tissue necrosis and small intestine mucosa, with additional tissue containing respiratory epithelium. Following laparotomy and excision of the cyst, the final pathologic diagnosis was benign epithelial cyst consistent with a duplication or hindgut cyst.

CONCLUSION

Although most retroperitoneal cysts are benign, surgical excision is required to rule out malignancy definitively.

Retrorectal tumours: optimization of surgical approach and outcome

AIM

The aim was to identify the radiological features of retrorectal tumours that influence management and to highlight technical points that facilitate safe surgical excision.

METHOD

A consecutive series of patients was identified from a prospective database. All cases were discussed within a multidisciplinary team. Medical records, radiology and pathology reports were also checked retrospectively.

RESULTS

Fifty-six patients [37 women; median age 51 (20-88) years] underwent excision of retrorectal tumours between 2002 and 2010 under the care of one surgeon. Seventeen (37.5%) had a malignant tumour. The commonest symptom was pain or discomfort. Features identified after MRI that suggested malignancy included heterogenous signal intensity (15/17 malignant lesions vs 5/39 benign lesions), an irregular infiltrative margin (14/17 malignant lesions vs 4/39 benign lesions) and enhancement (14/17 malignant lesions vs 2/39 benign lesions) (all P < 0.05). An abdominal approach was used in 27 (48%) patients, a perineal/trans-sacral approach in 20 (36%) and a composite abdomino-sacral approach in nine (16%). The perineal approach was used if the tumours were below the middle of S3 without sacral, pelvic side-wall or visceral involvement. The three most common types of tumour were schwannoma (n = 11), tail gut cyst (n = 13) and chordoma (n = 9). Over a median follow-up period of 46 (6-90) months there were two local recurrences among the malignant tumours (both resected) and two deaths (both sarcomas).

CONCLUSION

MR imaging, avoidance of routine preoperative biopsy and careful clinical evaluation result in a good outcome after surgical excision of retrorectal tumours.

Tumours of the retrorectal space: management and outcome of a heterogeneous group of diseases

AIM

Retrorectal tumours are a rare and complex entity in adults and children. They present a varied symptomatology and their treatment is very different according to their histology. We aimed to evaluate our experience of tumours of the retrorectal space.

METHOD

Forty patients with retrorectal tumours were divided into two groups according to age. The variables analysed were sex, signs and symptoms, complementary examinations, surgical approaches, adjuvant therapies, pathological analyses, recurrence and survival.

RESULTS

Symptoms across the 30 adults varied--back pain (18) was the most common. Surgical intervention was performed on 20 patients; the rest were candidates for other treatments: five metastatic disease, two lymphomas and two Ewing tumour. The most common surgical approach was posterior, with 10 cases (50%). In all, 70% of adult tumours were malignant, with chordoma (30%) and metastases (20%) being the most common lesions. The most frequent benign lesion was hamartoma (10%). The 1- and 5-year mortality rates were 23.8% and 38.1%, respectively. In the paediatric group, three patients were diagnosed in utero. The symptoms among children varied and all were operated upon. The most frequent tumour was teratoma. Overall mortality was 20%.

CONCLUSIONS

Given their complexity, these tumours should be addressed by experts and all treatment options must be contemplated. They continue to present a challenge, above all in malignant tumours where the tumour cannot be controlled at a locoregional level.

Posterior approach (Kraske procedure) for surgical treatment of presacral tumors

Presacral tumors are rare, but can comprise a great variety of histological types. Congenital tumors are the most common. Once the diagnosis is established, surgical resection is essential because of the potential for malignancy or infection. Previous biopsy is not necessary or may be even harmful. To decide the best surgical approach (abdominal, sacral or combined) an individual and multidisciplinary analysis must be carried out. We report three cases of cystic presacral masses in which a posterior approach (Kraske procedure) enabled complete resection, the only way to decrease local recurrence. All patients had a satisfactory recovery. A brief overview of retrorectal tumors is presented, focusing on classification, clinical presentation, diagnosis and surgical management.