ABSTRACT
Rectal tumors are in a unique location in that they are easily accessible to an examining finger, endoscopic and endoluminal ultrasonographic evaluation, local excision, and radiation therapy. Additionally, removal of the rectum may require a permanent stoma if the sphincter is not salvageable. Finally, the rectum may be affected by a wide variety of tumors, both benign and malignant, which are uncommon in occurrence and not well understood in their behavior and optimal treatment options. This article will review these rare tumors of the rectum, including lymphoma, neuroendocrine and carcinoid tumors, smooth muscle tumors (leiomyoma and leiomyosarcoma), adenosquamous carcinoma, AIDS-related rectal neoplasms, metastases to the rectum, rectal endometriosis, and cavernous hemangiomas of the rectum.
KEYWORD
Lymphoma - tumor - rectum - endometriosis - hemangioma
