Gastrointestinal polyposis with associated cutaneous manifestations

Rare large sigmoid hamartomatous polyp in an elderly patient with atypical Peutz-Jeghers syndrome: A case report

BACKGROUND

Peutz-Jeghers (PJ) syndrome (PJS) is a rare autosomal dominant genetic disease characterized by the association of intestinal polyposis, mucosal skin pigmentation, and cancer susceptibility. PJS patients have a significantly increased risk of malignant tumors in the gastrointestinal tract and extra-gastrointestinal tract, including various epithelial malignant tumors (colorectal cancer, gastric cancer, pancreatic cancer, breast cancer, and ovarian cancer, etc.). PJS is commonly seen in children and adolescents with multiple small intestinal polyps, often causing intussusception.

CASE SUMMARY

A 62-year-old male presented with intermittent left lower abdominal pain after drinking or consuming cold beverages that was accompanied by occasional hematochezia. Abdominal contrast-enhanced computed tomography indicated an isolated sigmoid colon grape-like lesion. Subsequently, the patient underwent laparoscopic surgery, and the pathological diagnosis was PJ hamartomatous polyp. PJS was not considered at the initial visit, as the patient was older, and the facial pigmentation was not obvious. However, significant pigmentation was observed in the perineum during digital rectal examination. Interestingly, we observed that the patient exhibited nodular shadows in the adrenal glands computed tomography images that may be related to pigmentation. Therefore, we performed the determination of adrenal cortical hormones, but the results were not abnormal. Combined with skin and mucosal pigmentation and laboratory examinations, the patient was diagnosed with PJS. After laparoscopic sigmoid colon resection, the patient's symptoms improved, and no discomfort symptoms were reported in the later follow-up.

CONCLUSION

The age of onset and lesion location of this case are different from those of typical or isolated PJS patients.

Genetic predisposition to polyposis syndromes

Hereditary polyposis syndromes are significant contributors to colorectal cancer (CRC). These syndromes are characterized by the development of various types and numbers of polyps, distinct inheritance patterns, and extracolonic manifestations. This review explores these syndromes with a focus on their genetic characteristics. Advances in diagnostics, particularly the identification of pathogenic germline variants through massive sequencing technologies, have enhanced our understanding of the genetic alterations associated with polyp formation and CRC risk. Identifying pathogenic variants beyond traditional diagnostic criteria improves the management and surveillance of these syndromes. Genetic diagnosis not only refines patient treatment and surveillance, but also informs relatives of potential risks, enabling appropriate management. However, challenges persist in determining the pathogenicity of newly discovered mutations due to their low prevalence. This review covers hereditary polyposis syndromes, from well-established to newly recognized types, providing insights into their genetic landscapes and highlighting the need for tailored surveillance based on genotype.

Recurrent colon cancer in a patient with Muir-Torre syndrome: a case report

Muir-Torre syndrome (MTS) is a rare subtype of hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer syndrome caused by a defect in DNA mismatch repair leading to microsatellite instability. It is characterized by the presence of at least one sebaceous gland tumor and one internal malignancy, most commonly colorectal and endometrial tumors. These patients have a high propensity for tumorigenesis, and while strict screening protocols are in place, there are only two cases that describe the management approach to recurrent colon cancer. Here, we present a case of recurrent colorectal cancer in a patient with MTS, and describe how it was managed at our facility by a multidisciplinary team.

Looking beyond the surface: Muir Torre syndrome

Muir-Torre Syndrome (MTS) is associated with multiple visceral malignancies. Initial presentation may be a benign skin tumor mimicking a sebaceous cyst. This case report highlights the importance of early diagnosis, genetic testing, and multidisciplinary screening. A 67-year-old man was diagnosed with MTS following excision of a skin lesion (sebaceoma). He was declined both screening colonoscopy and genetic testing. Subsequently, advanced colon cancer was found following presentation with iron deficiency anemia, which ultimately led to palliation despite successful surgery. MTS can present insidiously with skin lesions clinically diagnosed as sebaceous cysts. Once MTS is suspected on histology, genetic testing and screening for MTS-related cancers is warranted. Better understanding of the genetic variants for MTS can aid in earlier diagnosis thus not dismissing the need for screening for MTS-related cancers.

Tumor predisposition: what's the skin got to do with it?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Recognition of skin findings associated with tumor predisposition syndromes can prompt early evaluation and surveillance and improve management. Additionally, knowing when to test and when to defer performing genetic testing can streamline management. This article reviews tumor predisposition syndromes with recently characterized skin findings and disorders for which early recognition and counseling can impact the course of disease.

RECENT FINDINGS

Café au lait macules (CALMs) are important in many tumor predisposition syndromes, and 'atypical' CALMs are associated with constitutional mismatch repair deficiency and Fanconi anemia. Melanoma predisposition syndromes caused by pathogenic variants in POT1 and BAP1 are more recently described, and both are associated with Spitzoid tumors. Somatic pathogenic variants can cause segmental nevoid basal cell carcinoma syndrome and a mosaic form of Peutz-Jeghers syndrome. Patients with PTEN hamartoma syndrome have increased risk for melanoma but this might not occur until adulthood.

SUMMARY

The cutaneous manifestations of tumor predisposition syndromes can aid diagnosis. Early photoprotection is key to modifying a main risk factor for skin cancer in many of these syndromes. Implementing surveillance guidelines facilitates early detection of tumors.