Squamous cell carcinoma of the rectum: Is chemoradiation sufficient?

Primary squamous cell carcinoma of the rectum is uncommon. We report our experience of a case of squamous cell carcinoma of the rectum treated in our institution. Although primary chemoradiation produces a complete response in many patients, there is no consensus on a non-surgical management in these patients. Such an approach requires a strict surveillance schedule since recurrence is not uncommon. The prognosis of this tumour remains less favorable than its adenocarcinoma counterpart.