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Sister Mary Joseph’s nodule associated with rare endometrial squamous cell carcinoma

  • Gynecologic Oncology
  • Published:
Archives of Gynecology and Obstetrics Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

Background

Umbilical metastasis (Sister Mary Joseph’s nodule) is a rare physical sign seen only in 1–3 % of patients with an intra-abdominal and/or pelvic malignancy. Here, we present a case of Sister Mary Joseph’s (SMJN) nodule originating from a primary squamous cell carcinoma of the endometrium, a rare histological subtype.

Case history

SMJN was detected in a 30-year-old woman after a preoperative CT scan for a suspected umbilical hernia. Subsequent laparotomy and histopathological examination confirmed endometrial squamous cell carcinoma metastasizing to the umbilical region.

Conclusion

The SMJN may be the first presenting sign of an intra-abdominal and/or pelvic malignancy and may co-exist with an umbilical hernia. Therefore, malignancy should be considered one of the differentials of an umbilical mass.

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Abbreviations

SMJN:

Sister Mary Joseph’s nodule

PESCC:

Primary endometrial squamous cell carcinoma

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Acknowledgments

This case report did not receive any kind grant, logistic or financial support from any trust or organization.

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Correspondence to Kentaro Nakayama.

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Rahman, M.T., Nakayama, K., Rahman, M. et al. Sister Mary Joseph’s nodule associated with rare endometrial squamous cell carcinoma. Arch Gynecol Obstet 286, 711–715 (2012). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00404-012-2356-9

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00404-012-2356-9

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