title: Retroperitoneal sarcoma: a rare cause of intestinal perforation in two cases.
abstract: Retroperitoneal sarcoma is a rare malignancy often insidious in onset. At initial presentation, abdominal mass, pain or obstructive symptoms are the most common complaints. Here we present two patients who presented with abdominal discomfort and were discovered to have retroperitoneal sarcomas with secondary intestinal perforation. Perforation is a rare complication of retroperitoneal sarcoma, but one with the potential to significantly affect patient outcomes. Both patients underwent surgical resection and pathological characterization of their malignancies. The discovery of intestinal perforation during workup necessitates initiation of empirical antibiotic coverage and prompt surgical intervention.
authors.affiliation: Department of Genetics, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH.
authors.forename: Lj
authors.initials: Lj
authors.lastname: Kopplin
authors.affiliation: Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, University Hospitals Case Medical Center, Cleveland, OH.
authors.forename: Ja
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Kim