Colonic adenocarcinoma associated with the acquired immune deficiency syndrome

Abstract

Colonic adenocarcinoma developed in an intravenous drug abuser with the acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) that was diagnosed by the presence of antibodies to the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), generalized lymphadenopathy, and biopsy proven esophageal candidiasis. The colon cancer presented atypically at a young age with no known risk factors and with a bulky primary tumor and a local fistula. AIDS and AIDS risk factors have been associated with Kaposi's sarcoma, lymphomas, and anal and oropharyngeal carcinoma. This report suggests a possible association between colonic adenocarcinoma and AIDS.