Urachal Cancer in a 47-Year-Old Patient: A Case Report and Literature Review

Abstract

Aims: Urachal cancer is an uncommon neoplasm associated with poor prognosis. No concensus has been reached regarding diagnostic criteria so far. The management of urachal carcinoma is controversial, too. In this case presentation, we reported a 47 year old female with urachal cancer and treatment approach discussed with published literature. Presentation of Case: A 47-year-old female patient was admitted with abdominal pain and hematuria. A soft mass was noticed under her navel. Computerized tomography revealed a tumor which is a cystic lesion arising from the urachus and a solid mass component at the urinary bladder dome. The tumor was removed by partial cycectomy. Histological examination showed urachal adenocarcinoma (colonic type and well differentiated), which had invaded the urinary bladder. The patient has been followed up without a recurrence for the next 6 months. Discussion: Urachal carcinoma is a rare type of, approximately 0.5 to 2%, bladder neoplasms. The pathogenesis of urachal tumours is not fully understood, so far. Currently, the most effective treatment of localized urachal cancer is cystectomy. It is unclear whether lymphadenectomy or chemotherapy is usefull for the patients with urachal carcinoma. Conclusion: Regarding the treatment of urachal cancer, surgery remains the mainstay of therapy. Moreover, the achievement of a complete urachectomy, including umbilectomy and negative surgical margins, is critical for low-stage, localized, well-differentiated urachal cancer.