Colorectal cancer (CRC) and gastric cancer, ranking as the third and fifth most prevalent global cancers, respectively, have seen increased diagnoses due to advancements in early detection and extended lifespans. Synchronous and metachronous cancers, with a rare incidence, are notable, with CRC being the predominant synchronous occurrence in gastric cancer patients. Screening CRC patients for gastric cancer is debated due to its low incidence, underscoring the crucial role of early diagnosis. Distinguishing between metastatic adenocarcinoma and synchronous tumors is challenging, relying on techniques such as immunohistochemistry. Surgery is the primary treatment for synchronous cancer, with successful single-stage surgeries reported. A case presentation of a 68-year-old female highlights these complexities. The final diagnosis encompassed stage I gastric cancer and stage IV colon cancer, leading to adjuvant chemotherapy. Synchronous gastric cancer and CRC present a unique clinical challenge, necessitating tailored approaches. Collaboration between surgical and oncological teams is crucial for comprehensive treatment planning and optimizing patient outcomes.
Keywords: colectomy; colon cancer; gastrectomy; gastric cancer; immunohistochemistry; metachronous cancer; synchronous cancer.
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