Diagnostic and Therapeutic Challenges Associated with the Rare Cardiac Metastasis Complicating Rectal Adenocarcinoma

We report a rare case of metastatic rectal cancer to the liver, ovaries, lungs and peritoneum that presented initially with a 1-week history of rectal bleeding. Her hospital course was complicated by progressive dyspnea and palpitations secondary to right atrial metastasis based on imaging studies including cardiac MRI with contrast. The patient was not fit for chemotherapy or any surgical intervention given her poor prognosis and functional status in the setting of advanced stage of her disease. After discussion with the patient and her family, a decision was made to change her code status to DNR (do not resuscitate) and focus on palliative treatment of her disease. She expired about 2 weeks following her discharge date. Based on this case report, we recommend a high index of suspicion for cardiac metastasis when dealing with cardiac or respiratory complaints in cases of CRC that need careful evaluation with echocardiography and MRI.Case Rep Oncol 2020;13:1441 –1445
Source: Case Reports in Oncology - Category: Cancer & Oncology Source Type: research