Review of rectal abscess case after endoscopic mucosal resection highlights diagnostic considerations

This is a narrative review based on a single case report of a 74-year-old female patient who developed a rectal submucosal abscess after endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) for a rectal polyp. The review's scope is to discuss the clinical course and diagnostic implications of this complication.

The authors synthesize that the initial therapeutic approach of endoscopic fenestration and drainage failed to achieve a satisfactory therapeutic effect. The case ultimately required a sigmoidostomy. The review does not report a primary outcome, follow-up duration, or pooled effect sizes, as it is based on one case.

A key limitation noted is that the evidence is from a single case report, which limits generalizability. The authors acknowledge that the setting was not reported and that the patient's immunity status was compromised, though specific details are not provided.

The practice relevance emphasized is the necessity of considering phlegmon or abscess formation in the differential diagnosis for patients with unexplained acute abdomen after EMR for rectal lesions, especially in those with compromised immunity. This review does not establish causality and should be interpreted with caution due to its limited evidence base.