Two case reports: Colorectal adenocarcinoma in children

Rationale: Colorectal cancer in children is rare, with delayed diagnosis and advanced stage at presentation in high mortality. Early detection of colorectal cancer is, therefore, important for better prognosis. Patient concerns: Thirteen-year-old boy presented with symptoms of melena, vomiting, and abdominal pain for 6 months. 18-year-old girl was hospitalized due to the symptoms of hematochezia, and persistent abdominal pain for 6 months. They have no chronic disease or familial history of malignancy. Diagnoses: We encountered 2 teenagers diagnosed with colorectal cancer. Interventions: Both patients had the same histological findings in postoperation colonic biopsy and underwent surgical resection. Outcomes: The boy fully recovered with only surgery, but the girl died, despite receiving adjuvant chemotherapy for the advanced stage of cancer. Lessons: We recommend early and active evaluation, including a pediatric colonoscopy, in a child with suspected malignancy.