To report the diagnostic and therapeutic course of a young adult with small-cell neuroendocrine carcinoma (SCNEC) of the descending colon, focusing on atypical imaging features and their implications for diagnosis.
Key Findings:
SCNEC of the colon is rare, particularly in young adults.
Initial imaging findings can be confused with inflammatory diseases.
Atypical imaging features, such as circumferential colonic wall thickening, were observed.
The patient's young age is significant given the rarity of SCNEC.
Interpretation:
Colonic neuroendocrine neoplasms should be considered in the differential diagnosis for young patients with gastrointestinal symptoms, and early endoscopic biopsy is crucial for diagnosis to facilitate timely intervention.
Limitations:
The patient declined initial diagnostic procedures, delaying diagnosis and treatment, which may have affected the prognosis.
The rarity of SCNEC limits the generalizability of findings.
Conclusion:
This case emphasizes the need for awareness of atypical presentations of SCNEC in young patients.
