A case report on a rare presentation of solitary rectal ulcer syndrome

Abstract

We describe a highly unusual case of solitary rectal ulcer syndrome (SRUS) that presented as a large polyp protruding from the anal canal. A 67-year-old man presented with rectal bleeding and mucus discharge. At examination under anaesthesia, a large pedunculated polypoidal lesion was found, measuring 25 × 20 mm, arising posterolaterally from the anorectal junction and protruding externally 50 mm in size. SRUS can be a misnomer as the condition can present in a number of different ways and only a minority of patients has a solitary ulcer. Other findings include multiple ulcers, hyperaemic mucosa or a broad-based polypoidal mass. In this case, a rare presentation of SRUS in the form of a large polyp was confirmed by histology. A key learning point is to remember that although less common than other causes of rectal symptoms, it should be considered as part of the differential diagnosis once sinister causes have been excluded.

Figure 1:

Extensive mucosal ulceration, mucosal prolapse and reactive glandular atypia.

Figure 2:

Vascular congestion and grossly dilated veins (haemorrhoids) with early intraluminal thrombus formation.