Korean J Fam Pract.  2021 Jun;11(3):217-220. 10.21215/kjfp.2021.11.3.217.

A Case of Adenocarcinoma Developed in the Terminal Ileum Presenting Elevated Carcinoembryonic Antigen

• Lee SH
• Lee JG

• KMID: 2516847
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.21215/kjfp.2021.11.3.217

Abstract

Malignant neoplasm of the small intestine is a relatively rare disease. Because the early manifestation of symptoms in patients with cancer of the small intestine is non-specific, diagnosis is often delayed. An asymptomatic 55-year-old male visited the Health Promotion Center for routine check-up. Physical examination findings were unremarkable, and the blood test parameters were within the normal range, except serum carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) level, which was elevated. Stool occult blood test was negative. In the follow-up examination, an increase in serum CEA was observed, and colonoscopy revealed a mass-like lesion in the terminal ileum. Biopsy findings confirmed the mass to be an adenocarcinoma including signet ring cells. In conclusion, malignant neoplasm of the small intestine is rare. However, early diagnosis may be possible with the follow-up and investigation of non-specific findings such as elevated CEA.

Keyword

Ileal Neoplasms; Carcinoembryonic Antigen; Asymptomatic Diseases; Early Diagnosis; Adenocarcinoma