Mesenchymoma of the retrorectal space: a case report and review of literature.

Although sarcoma occurring in the true retroperitoneum is not uncommon, sarcoma in the retrorectal space is unique. We report a patient with a malignant mesenchymoma, a rare soft tissue tumor, in the retrorectal space. Complete resection was accomplished through a combined Kraske's posterior and midline anterior approach. The rectum had not been invaded by the mass. Survival of patients with malignant mesenchymoma does not exceed 50% in most reports, and the role of adjuvant chemotherapy or radiation has yet to be defined. Its attendant morbidity must be weighed against an uncertain prognosis.