Mucosal carcinoma within a colonic diverticulum.

We report a case of a mucosal carcinoma and adenoma within a diverticulum in the cecum. Radiographic, endoscopic, and pathologic evaluation of the tumor is presented. Surgical resection was undertaken because of the size and shape of the lesion, risk of perforation, and the possibility of malignancy. A recent review of the literature with respect to clinical signs, diagnosis, growth of the carcinoma, and treatment of tumors around or within diverticula is also presented. A carcinoma or adenoma arising within the diverticulum is very rare. Endoscopic resection of the tumor could entail the risk of perforation, because of the lack of muscular coats in the diverticula. Surgical treatment may be the procedure of choice for lesions near or within the diverticula.