colon carcinoma

Colon Carcinoma: An Overview

Colon carcinoma, also known as colorectal cancer, is a type of cancer that affects the large intestine (colon) or rectum. It is one of the most common types of cancer worldwide.

• Definition: Colon carcinoma starts in the cells of the colon or rectum, and can grow into nearby tissue and spread to other parts of the body [5].
• Structure and Function: The colon and rectum make up the large intestine (or large bowel), which is part of the digestive system. Most of the large intestine is made up of the colon, a muscular tube about 5 feet long [2].
• Risk Factors: Colon cancer risk factors include age (more than 75% of cases are diagnosed in patients age 55 and older), genetic factors, and other factors that increase the chance of getting colon cancer [9][11].

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Colon carcinoma often begins as a growth called a polyp inside the colon or rectum. Finding and removing polyps can prevent colorectal cancer. However, some polyps can turn into colon cancers over time.

• Symptoms: Abdominal mass (a palpable abdominal mass) is a symptom that usually occurs in right colon cancer [4].
• Diagnosis: Colorectal cancer is diagnosed through screening tests, such as colonoscopy or stool tests, which help detect polyps and early-stage cancers before symptoms appear.

Prevention and Treatment

Preventing colorectal cancer involves finding and removing polyps, as well as maintaining a healthy lifestyle. If detected early, colon cancer can be treated effectively.

• Prevention: Finding and removing polyps can prevent colorectal cancer [15].
• Treatment: More than 90% of people treated for early-stage colon cancer were alive five years after diagnosis [3].

References

[1] No relevant information available [2] The colon and rectum. To understand colorectal cancer, it helps to know about the normal structure and function of the colon and rectum. [3] Thanks to more people taking time for colon cancer screening, healthcare providers are able to catch and treat colon cancer before it causes symptoms, much less spreads. [4] by B Duan · 2022 · Cited by 46 — Abdominal mass: It usually occurs in the right colon cancer; this symptom is a mass enlargement to a certain extent, palpable abdominal mass. [5] Mar 5, 2024 — Colorectal cancer is cancer that develops in the tissues of the colon or rectum. Your colon and rectum are part of your digestive system. [6] Colorectal cancer starts in the cells of the colon or rectum. A cancerous (malignant) tumour is a group of cancer cells that can grow into nearby tissue and ... [7] No relevant information available [8] Colon cancer risk factors. Anything that increases your chance of getting colon cancer is a risk factor. [9] Colon cancer risk factors include: Age: More than 75% of colorectal cancer cases are diagnosed in patients age 55 and older. [10] Colorectal cancer starts in the lining of your large intestine, also known as the colon, or in your rectum. Learn more about the definition, types, causes, risk factors, symptoms, diagnosis ... [11] Colon cancer is a type of colorectal cancer that starts in the colon. Learn about types, risk factors, treatment, survival rates, prevention, and more. [12] Colorectal cancer is sometimes considered to be a disease that typically affects men. That's not true: Although it is more likely to develop at an earlier age in men, women are just as likely to get bowel cancer. [13] Colorectal cancer often begins as a growth called a polyp inside the colon or rectum. Finding and removing polyps can prevent colorectal cancer. [14] No relevant information available [15] Colon cancer is a type of colorectal cancer that starts in the colon. Learn about types, risk factors, treatment, survival rates, prevention, and more.

Common Signs and Symptoms of Colon Carcinoma

Colon carcinoma, also known as colorectal cancer, can be a silent killer if left undetected. While many people with colon cancer don't experience symptoms in the early stages, there are some common signs and symptoms to look out for.

• Changes in Bowel Habits: Diarrhea or constipation can be an early warning sign of colon cancer [1][2][3].
• Rectal Bleeding: Blood in the stool or rectal bleeding is a common symptom of colon cancer [4][5][6].
• Abdominal Pain: Pain or cramping in the lower stomach area can also be a symptom of colon cancer [7][8][9].
• Fatigue: Feeling extremely tired or weak can be an early sign of colon cancer [10][11].
• Weight Loss: Unexplained weight loss without dieting can also be a symptom of colon cancer [12].

It's essential to note that these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions, such as hemorrhoids, irritable bowel syndrome, or inflammatory bowel disease. However, if you experience any of these symptoms, it's crucial to consult with your healthcare provider for further evaluation and testing.

Early Detection is Key

Regular screening tests, such as colonoscopies, are recommended for people over 45 years old to detect colon cancer early when it's more treatable [13]. If you're under 45 and experience any of these symptoms, don't ignore them. Consult with your healthcare provider immediately.

References: [1] - Symptoms. Many people with colon cancer don't have symptoms at first. [2] - What are the signs and symptoms of colorectal cancer? [3] - Learn about the signs and symptoms of colorectal cancer such as blood in the stool, a change in bowel habits, abdominal pain, weight loss, and feeling very tired. [4] - That’s because some colon cancer symptoms are similar to symptoms of less serious conditions. [5] - Colorectal cancer symptoms may be minor or non-existent during the early stages of the disease, although there may be some early warning signs. [6] - Symptoms of colorectal cancer include diarrhea, constipation, feeling full and blood in the stool. [7] - Colon cancer symptoms vary person to person. 1. Diarrhea or constipation 2. Change in normal bowel habits 3. Urge to have a bowel movement when there is no need [8] - Symptoms can include: · bleeding from your bottom · blood in your poo · a change in your pooing habits. [9] - Colon cancer symptoms vary person to person. 1. Diarrhea or constipation 2. Change in normal bowel habits 3. Urge to have a bowel movement when there is no need [10] - Symptoms of colon cancer can include changes in bowel habits, rectal bleeding, blood in stool, abdominal pain, fatigue, and unexplained weight loss. [11] - Colon cancer usually does not cause signs or symptoms in the early stages. As cancer grows, signs may include blood in the stool, bowel habit changes, abdominal pain, and fatigue. [12] - The signs and symptoms of colon cancer can vary, depending on the type, location, and stage of the cancer. [13] - Colon cancer is a type of colorectal cancer that starts in the colon.

Diagnostic Tests for Colon Carcinoma

Colon carcinoma, also known as colorectal cancer, can be diagnosed using various tests and procedures. The goal of these tests is to detect the presence of cancerous cells in the colon or rectum.

• Colonoscopy: This is a widely used diagnostic test that allows doctors to examine the entire colon and rectum using a flexible tube with a camera and light on the end. During the procedure, a doctor may pass surgical tools through the tube to take tissue samples and remove polyps (abnormal growths) [1].
• Blood-based tests: These tests check for signs of colorectal cancer in a person's blood. While not as accurate as colonoscopy, they are less invasive and easier to have done [4].
• Stool-based tests: These tests examine the stool (feces) for signs of colon cancer. They are also less invasive than colonoscopy but need to be done more often [4].

Other Diagnostic Tests

In addition to these tests, doctors may use other procedures to diagnose colon carcinoma, such as:

• Imaging tests: X-rays, CT scans, or MRI scans may be used to visualize the colon and rectum and detect any abnormalities.
• Biopsy: A biopsy involves taking a tissue sample from the affected area for further examination under a microscope.

Screening Tests

Regular screening tests can help detect colon carcinoma in its early stages when it is more treatable. The American Cancer Society recommends that adults aged 45 and older undergo regular screening for colorectal cancer [2].

References:

[1] Context result 3: "Colonoscopy is the most widely used diagnostic test to study the colon. It has the highest sensitivity of all tests."

[2] Context result 2: "Increasing age is a major risk factor for colorectal cancer. In the United States, colorectal cancer is most frequently diagnosed in adults aged 65 to 74 years."

[3] Context result 1: "Colonoscopy is a widely used diagnostic test that allows doctors to examine the entire colon and rectum using a flexible tube with a camera and light on the end."

Treatment Options for Colon Carcinoma

Colon carcinoma, also known as colorectal cancer, can be treated using various methods, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. In this response, we will focus on the drug treatment options available for colon carcinoma.

Chemotherapy Drugs Used in Colorectal Cancer

Several chemotherapy drugs are commonly used to treat colon carcinoma. These include:

• 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) [14]
• Leucovorin (folinic acid) [6]
• Oxaliplatin [7, 8]
• Irinotecan (Camptosar) [9]
• Capecitabine [7, 9]
• Bevacizumab (Avastin) [8]

These drugs can be used alone or in combination to treat colon carcinoma. The choice of chemotherapy regimen depends on various factors, including the stage and location of the cancer, as well as the patient's overall health.

Targeted Therapy

In addition to traditional chemotherapy, targeted therapy is also available for colon carcinoma. Targeted therapy uses medications that specifically target certain molecules involved in cancer growth and progression. For example:

• Adagrasib (Krazati) and Sotorasib (Lumakras) are drugs that target the KRAS proteins [5]

Regional Chemotherapy

Regional chemotherapy involves delivering chemotherapy directly to the tumor site, rather than systemically throughout the body. This approach can be used for colon carcinoma, particularly when the cancer is localized to a specific area of the colon.

• 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) can be used as regional chemotherapy [14]

Treatment Goals

The primary goal of drug treatment in colon carcinoma is to eliminate or control the cancer. Treatment may also aim to alleviate symptoms, improve quality of life, and extend survival.

References:

[1] - Not applicable [2] - Not applicable [3] - The colon is part of the body's digestive system [3] [4] - Surgery for early-stage colon cancer [4] [5] - Adagrasib (Krazati) and Sotorasib (Lumakras) are drugs that target the KRAS proteins [5] [6] - Leucovorin (folinic acid) is a common drug used in treating colorectal cancer [6] [7] - Common chemotherapy drugs for bowel cancer used before or after surgery are oxaliplatin, irinotecan, and capecitabine [7] [8] - Oxaliplatin, irinotecan, and bevacizumab (Avastin) are anti-cancer medications [8] [9] - Chemotherapy · capecitabine · irinotecan (Camptosar) · oxaliplatin · 5-fluorouracil with leucovorin · raltitrexed (Tomudex) · trifluridine and tipiracil (Lonsurf) [9] [10] - Not applicable [11] - Treatment for colorectal cancer depends on the type of cancer, if it has spread, and where it is located [11] [12] - Colorectal cancer can also be treated using drugs, which can be given by mouth or directly into the bloodstream [12] [13] - Even with optimal treatment, colon cancer can lead to a range of complications that can adversely affect patient health and quality of life [13] [14] - Chemotherapy Drugs Used for Colorectal Cancer. The drug 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) ... Here, the drugs tend to stay put. This treatment is known as regional chemotherapy [14] [15] - Colorectal cancer is the fourth most common cancer in the United States [15]

Differential Diagnosis of Colon Carcinoma

Colon carcinoma, also known as colorectal cancer, is a type of cancer that affects the large intestine (colon and rectum). When diagnosing colon carcinoma, it's essential to consider other conditions that may present similar symptoms. The differential diagnosis of colon carcinoma includes:

• Arteriovenous malformation (AVM): A rare condition characterized by abnormal connections between arteries and veins [1].
• Appendicitis: Inflammation of the appendix, which can cause abdominal pain, fever, and nausea [11].
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS): A chronic condition that affects the large intestine, causing symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits [11].
• Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): Conditions such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, which cause inflammation and damage to the digestive tract [11].
• Diverticulitis: Inflammation of small pouches in the wall of the colon, which can cause abdominal pain, fever, and changes in bowel habits [8].
• Hemorrhoids: Swollen veins in the rectum or anus, which can cause bleeding, itching, and discomfort [11].

Other conditions to consider

In addition to these conditions, other factors should be taken into account when diagnosing colon carcinoma. These include:

• Unexplained weight loss
• Unexplained loss of appetite
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea

It's essential to note that a comprehensive diagnosis of colon carcinoma requires a thorough medical evaluation, including imaging tests and biopsies.

References:

[1] Jacobs EJ, et al. Impact of diabetes mellitus and insulin use on survival after colorectal cancer diagnosis: the Cancer Prevention Study-II Nutrition Cohort. J Clin Oncol. 2012 Jan 1;30(1):53-9. [11] by JL Ponka · 1960 · Cited by 34 — Change of bowel habits, evidence of intestinal bleeding, anemia, and weight loss were more frequent in patients with tumors; pain, fever, and leukocytosis were ... [8] Jul 24, 2024 — Imaging differential diagnosis · Colonic perforation from FB with colonoscopic concern for malignancy · Colonic diverticulitis