Cancer of the Colon; Colorectal Small Cell Cancer; Small Cell Carcinoma of the Large Intestine

Small Cell Cancer of the Large Intestine is an aggressive (fast-growing) cancer that forms in tissues of the intestine and can spread to other parts of the body. The cancer cells look small and oval-shaped when looked at under a microscope. Small cell carcinoma of the large intestine represents .2% to .8% of all colorectal malignancies.

Diagnostic testing: The diagnosis of colorectal small cell carcinoma is confirmed by pathology and the use of immunohistochemistry. Specific staining for CD56, pancytokeratin, LMWK, CK 7 and 19 are usually positive in small cell malignancies.

Early diagnosis depends on:

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  Routine screening;

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  Occult blood study;

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  Sigmoidoscopy;

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  Colonoscopy;

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  CT scan; and

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  Endoscopy.

Physical findings: General symptoms may include:

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  Change in bowel habits,

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  Abdominal pain; and

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  Weight loss.

ICD-9: 209.0

ICD-10: C7A.019

Survival rates are poor, usually less than 2 years.

Treatment for colorectal small cell carcinoma is the use of combined chemotherapy and radiotherapy as is used in small cell carcinoma of the lung.

Suggested MER for Evaluation: The diagnosis of small cell carcinoma of the large intestine is a pathologic diagnosis which would be confirmed by a pathology report of colonoscopy specimen.

Suggested Listings for Evaluation:

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