Solitary pancreatic metastasis from a primary colonic tumor detected by PET scan - Report of a case

PURPOSE: A case of a solitary pancreatic metastasis from a primary colonic carcinoma is reported. METHODS: The history and use of carcinoembryonic ant igen, computed tomography, and positron emission tomography in this case an d the follow-up of colorectal cancer are reviewed. RESULTS: Recurrent disea se was suspected by an increasing carcinoembryonic antigen level. However, conventional imaging with computed tomography on more than one occasion fai led to identify any recurrence. The pancreatic metastasis was accurately lo calized by positron emission tomography scanning and confirmed on subsequen t laparotomy. A histologically complete resection was performed and the pat ient remained in remission with a normal carcinoembryonic antigen 12 months postoperatively. CONCLUSION: This case reports an unusual site of solitary metastasis in colorectal cancer and supports the further investigation of positron emission tomography in follow-up of colorectal cancer.