Small cell carcinoma of the gastric remnant: a case report

Abstract

Abstract Objective Small cell carcinoma (SCC) is mostly found in the lungs. It is extremely rare in the gastric remnant. Here, we report a case and review the literature in order to improve the diagnosis and treatment of SCC of the gastric remnant. Methods We report a case of SCC of the gastric remnant in a 71-year-old male Chinese patient who presented with epigastric pain, acid regurgitation, and belching and who underwent Billroth II gastrectomy more than 38 years ago. Results Physical examination showed no obvious abnormalities. Laboratory data were within normal limits, except for anemia. Pathology of the mass showed a protruded tumor measuring 5.0 × 5.0 × 2.5 cm at the anastomotic edge of the gastric remnant that infiltrated through the full wall of the stomach; this was confirmed by immunohistochemical staining for cytokeratin [CK (-)], leukocyte common antigen (LCA) (+), synaptophysin (+), CD56 (+), and Ki-67 (+ > 50%). Conclusion SCC of the gastric remnant is extremely rare, although the pathology, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of SCC are similar to those of gastric SCC. Although the standard treatment of SCC of the gastric remnant remains unclear, effective surgical resection and subsequent multiagent chemotherapy should be performed for long-term survival. Our case shows the efficacy of tegafurgimeracil-oteracil-potassium capsule chemotherapy. Examination of a large series is required to determine the optimal treatment strategy for SCC of the gastric remnant.