Gastric cancer and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma: Gastrectomy followed by left hepatectomy to achieve R0 resection

Gastric cancer is the fifth most common cancer and the third leading cause of cancer deaths globally. Its incidence is highest in Asia and lowest in Africa. In 1.1%-4.7% of all gastric cancer cases, at least one other primary tumor may be found. We present the case of a 55-year-old male from West Asia who underwent proximal gastrectomy for Stage IIB gastric adenocarcinoma. One year into postoperative surveillance, routine abdominal imaging revealed a liver tumor. A left hepatectomy was performed, histology of which revealed cholangiocarcinoma. Cholangiocarcinoma though rare may occur following a diagnosis of gastric cancer, thus the strong need for routine abdominal imaging during surveillance of these patients. Any suspicious lesions discovered during follow-up need to be vigilantly evaluated so that patients are offered appropriate and timely treatment.