Our Summary

This study covers the case of a 74-year-old woman who had a tailgut cyst, a rare type of cyst that originates in the tail-end of the gut. This cyst had been slowly growing in size and had developed malignant, or cancerous, characteristics. Five years prior, during a check-up after a mastectomy for a different type of cancer, doctors noticed an increase in a specific tumor marker and identified the cyst through a CT scan. Over the following five years, they used CT and MRI scans to monitor the cyst, noting that it was gradually getting larger and developing a solid component. They then surgically removed the cyst, and the solid component was found to contain intestinal adenocarcinoma, a type of cancer. The researchers conclude that MRI and CT scans can be crucial in detecting and characterizing these types of cysts prior to surgery, including assessing whether they may have become cancerous. They recommend surgery to remove the cyst once it is diagnosed, especially if it is growing or has a solid component.

FAQs

  1. What is a tailgut cyst and how common is it?
  2. How can MRI and CT scans help in diagnosing and monitoring tailgut cysts?
  3. What is the recommended treatment for a tailgut cyst that is growing or has a solid component?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might advise a patient undergoing tumor resection to follow post-operative care instructions carefully, including taking prescribed medications, attending follow-up appointments, and avoiding strenuous activities that could strain the surgical site. It is important to report any unusual symptoms or signs of infection to your healthcare provider promptly. Regular imaging tests may be recommended to monitor for any signs of recurrence or new growth. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, can also help support recovery and reduce the risk of complications.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended tumor resection include:

  1. Patients with tumors that are suspected or confirmed to be cancerous.
  2. Patients with tumors that are growing in size or showing signs of malignancy.
  3. Patients with tumors that are causing symptoms or complications, such as pain, obstruction, or bleeding.
  4. Patients with tumors that are in a location that is accessible for surgical removal.
  5. Patients with tumors that are not responding to other treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
  6. Patients with tumors that are causing compression or damage to surrounding organs or tissues.
  7. Patients with tumors that are causing significant psychological distress or impacting their quality of life.
  8. Patients with tumors that have the potential to spread or metastasize if not removed.
  9. Patients with tumors that are deemed to be operable and have a good prognosis with surgical intervention.

Timeline

  • Five years prior: During a routine check-up after a mastectomy, doctors notice an increase in a specific tumor marker and identify a tailgut cyst through a CT scan.
  • Over the next five years: The cyst is monitored using CT and MRI scans, showing gradual growth and development of a solid component.
  • Before tumor resection: The patient undergoes surgery to remove the tailgut cyst, which is found to contain intestinal adenocarcinoma.
  • After tumor resection: The patient undergoes follow-up care and monitoring to ensure the cancer has been successfully removed and to monitor for any recurrence.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is the location and size of the tumor?
  2. What are the risks and benefits of tumor resection surgery?
  3. What is the expected outcome of the surgery?
  4. What is the recovery process like after tumor resection surgery?
  5. Are there any alternative treatments to tumor resection?
  6. What are the chances of the tumor being cancerous?
  7. Will further treatment, such as chemotherapy or radiation, be necessary after the surgery?
  8. How often will follow-up appointments be needed to monitor for recurrence?
  9. Are there any long-term effects or complications associated with tumor resection surgery?
  10. Are there any lifestyle changes that should be made following the surgery to improve outcomes?

Reference

Authors: Manco G, Giliberti G, Rolando G, Gelsomino F, Zunarelli E, Rossi A. Journal: Ann Ital Chir. 2017 Jul 5;6:S2239253X17027116. PMID: 28892466