Postpartum colonic squamous cell carcinoma with a BRAFV600E mutation: a case report.

Abstract

Introduction: Primary squamous cell carcinoma of the colon is a rare malignancy, especially in the postpartum period. Currently, there are no recommended guidelines for this disease. BRAF^V600E-mutated metastatic colorectal cancer occurs in approximately 8-12% of patients with colorectal cancer.

Case presentation: Herein, we report a case of a 37-year-old Chinese woman diagnosed with postpartum descending colon squamous cell carcinoma harboring the BRAF^V600E mutation, which was treated with radical resection and adjuvant chemotherapy combined with targeted therapy. Eight months later, a new lesion was detected in the colon 40 cm away from the first mass. The patient was enrolled in a clinical trial but withdrew following two treatment cycles because of rapid disease progression. Subsequently, the patient died approximately 6 months after enrolling in the trial.

Conclusion: Squamous cell carcinoma of the colon, particularly in postpartum women, is uncommon and often associated with an advanced stage and poor prognosis. Presently, patients with colorectal cancer carrying the BRAF^V600E mutation typically exhibit a low ratio, an advanced stage, and limited response to existing treatment approaches, resulting in a poor prognosis. Considerable emphasis and effort must be devoted to colonic squamous cell carcinoma, specifically cases harboring the BRAF^V600E mutation.