Adenocarcinoma primário de duodeno

Primary adenocarcinoma of the duodenum is an extremely rare disease, and represents only 0.35% of all gastrointestinal malignancies. Early detection of the disease may be difficult because of the absence of pathognomonic symptoms. The authors relate one case of a adenocarcinoma of the duodenum in a 61-year-old white man with a history of abdominal pain for a six-month period, associated with postprandial fullness, vomiting and weight loss. Contrasted x-ray and computerized tomography showed a tumor in the fourth segment of the duodenum, with partial obstruction of the lumen. Histological study revealed a moderate differentiated adenocarcinoma. Treatment consisted of resection of the fourth portion of duodenum. The authors comment on the most important aspects of this pathology.