A Rare Case of Spindle Cell Neoplasm of Rectum

Spindle cell neoplasms usually occur in head, neck, orbit, soft tissues of scalp and along the upper aerodigestive tract. They are relatively uncommon in lower gastrointestinal tract and represent a distinct clinical entity. Increased awareness is required among colorectal surgeons and pathologists due to their benign nature & uncertain etiology, to avoid misdiagnosis of rectal cancer. Definitive diagnosis necessitates immunohistochemical analysis. We present an unusual case of spindle cell neoplasm of rectum in an asymptomatic elderly gentleman, detected on screening colonoscopy. Following thorough evaluation with MRI pelvis, CT scan thorax, abdomen, pelvis with contrast and multidisciplinary meeting discussion (MDT) at our institution, he was successfully treated with a specialized minimally invasive approach (TAMIS). Histopathology with immunohistochemistry confirmed the diagnosis of spindle cell neoplasm. As they are uncommon in colorectum & non-invasive, management and long-term follow-up is still under study. These lesions should be differentiated from other stromal tumours in GIT.