[Regional lymph node recurrence of colorectal cancer. Considerations of etiology and therapy based on angiography findings].

Within a group of 101 patients treated for locally recurrent colorectal cancer 10 of them presented with a recurrence located in the lymphnodes of the primary tumor bed. This "pseudo-recurrence" shows some typical findings as elevated CEA serum levels in asymptomatic patients, and intact anastomosis endoscopically. However, angiography reveals the presence of the inferior mesenteric artery and it branches left behind at operation for the primary tumor. Furthermore, endoluminal ultrasound may be able to detect these situations. Both investigations are a must in patients following resection of a colorectal primary tumor of the left hemicolon or rectum being suspicious for a locoregional recurrence. Detection of a lymphnode recurrence may be of value in planning for a reintervention as it helps to select patients with a better chance for a curative surgical approach.