Genetic and Molecular Characteristics of Rare Malignant Tumors of The Colorectal Tract: A Comprehensive Genomic Profiling Study

Abstract

While the vast majority of colorectal tract malignancies are adenocarcinomas, a subset of rare histological subtypes including neuroendocrine carcinomas
(NECs), gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs), and primary colorectal lymphomas account for approximately 1–5% of cases. Due to their low incidence, the genomic landscape of these rare tumors remains poorly characterized. This study aimed to delineate the distinct genetic and molecular profiles of rare malignant colorectal tumors using next-generation sequencing (NGS) to identify potential therapeutic targets and elucidate their pathogenesis.