Discuss This Disease

4 free views remaining today

transverse colon cancer

ICD-10 Codes

Related ICD-10:

Description

Transverse Colon Cancer: A Rare but Aggressive Form of Colorectal Cancer

Transverse colon cancer, also known as TCC, is a rare form of colorectal cancer that affects the transverse colon, which is a section of the large intestine that runs across the abdomen. According to search results [7], TCC accounts for about 10% of all colon cancers.

Characteristics and Symptoms

TCC tends to present with higher stages at diagnosis compared to other forms of colorectal cancer [1]. Common symptoms include constipation, change in bowel habits, narrow ribbon-like stools, bleeding, and abdominal pain [4]. In some cases, TCC can also lead to perforation, resulting in abdominal wall or retroperitoneal abscesses [3].

Differences from Right-Sided Colorectal Cancer

TCC shares some similarities with right-sided colorectal cancer, including higher stages at presentation and less tumor differentiation [1]. However, it is distinct from left-sided colorectal cancer in terms of its molecular characteristics [5].

Importance of Early Detection

Given the aggressive nature of TCC, early detection through screening tests is crucial to prevent spread and improve treatment outcomes. Screening can detect precancerous polyps, which can be treated early to prevent cancer development [2].

Additional Characteristics

  • Constipation
  • Bleeding
  • Abdominal pain
  • Change in bowel habits
  • Transverse colon cancer
  • Narrow ribbon-like stools

Signs and Symptoms

Common Signs and Symptoms of Transverse Colon Cancer

Transverse colon cancer, like other types of colorectal cancer, may not cause noticeable symptoms in the early stages. However, as the cancer grows, it can lead to various signs and symptoms. Here are some common ones:

  • Anemia caused by blood loss: The first sign of right-sided colon cancer, including transverse colon cancer, is often anemia due to blood loss (4). This occurs when the tumor bleeds into the stool or rectum.
  • Abdominal pain: As the cancer grows, it can cause abdominal pain, which may be a dull ache or sharp pain (5).
  • Changes in bowel habits: Transverse colon cancer can lead to changes in bowel habits, such as constipation or diarrhea (6).
  • Weight loss and fatigue: Advanced transverse colon cancer can cause weight loss and fatigue due to the body's increased energy expenditure on fighting the disease (8).

Important Considerations

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. Therefore, if you experience any of these symptoms, it's crucial to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and diagnosis.

Citations:

  • [4] Anemia caused by blood loss is often the first sign of right-sided colon cancer.
  • [5] Abdominal pain can be a symptom of transverse colon cancer.
  • [6] Changes in bowel habits, such as constipation or diarrhea, can occur due to transverse colon cancer.
  • [8] Weight loss and fatigue are common symptoms of advanced colorectal cancer.

Additional Symptoms

  • Weight loss and fatigue
  • Changes in bowel habits (constipation or diarrhea)
  • Anemia caused by blood loss
  • abdominal pain

Diagnostic Tests

Diagnostic Tests for Transverse Colon Cancer

The transverse colon, one of the four parts of the colon, can be affected by cancer. Diagnosing transverse colon cancer requires a combination of imaging tests and physical examinations. Here are some diagnostic tests that may be used to detect transverse colon cancer:

  • Colonoscopy: This is a procedure where a flexible tube with a camera and light on the end (colonoscope) is inserted through the rectum to visualize the inside of the colon, including the transverse colon. A doctor can pass surgical tools through the tube to take tissue samples and remove polyps. [2]
  • Imaging tests: Imaging tests such as CT scans, MRI, or PET scans may be used to create pictures of the inside of the body, including the transverse colon. These tests can help identify any abnormalities or cancerous growths in the transverse colon. [1]
  • Blood tests: Blood tests may also be ordered to check for signs of cancer, such as elevated levels of certain proteins or enzymes. However, these tests are not specific to transverse colon cancer and may require further testing to confirm a diagnosis.
  • Stool-based tests: Stool-based tests, such as fecal occult blood test (FOBT) or fecal immunochemical test (FIT), can detect hidden blood in the stool, which can be a sign of colorectal cancer. However, these tests are less specific and may require further testing to confirm a diagnosis.

It's essential to note that transverse colon cancer is relatively rare compared to other types of colorectal cancer. If you're experiencing symptoms or have concerns about your health, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and diagnosis.

References:

[1] - Imaging tests may be done for a number of reasons, such as: To look at suspicious areas that might be cancer; To learn more about the size, shape, and location of tumors. [Context]

[2] - The colon starts at the cecum, which is on the right side. It goes up to the ascending colon, across the body to the transverse colon and down to the ... [Context]

Treatment

Differential Diagnosis

The differential diagnosis for transverse colon cancer can be quite broad, involving various conditions that may present similarly to cancer in this region. Here are some possible considerations:

  • Benign tumors: Lipomas, leiomyomas, and other types of benign growths can occur in the transverse colon and may mimic cancer on imaging studies.
  • Inflammatory processes: Conditions like diverticulitis, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), or infectious colitis can cause inflammation and potentially lead to a mass-like appearance in the transverse colon.
  • Malignant tumors: In addition to adenocarcinoma, other types of cancer such as carcinoid tumors, lymphomas, or metastatic lesions from other primary cancers can also occur in the transverse colon.

According to search result [4], diagnosis of transverse colon cancer is often delayed and complicated forms (perforation, fistulization, obstruction) occur in 30-50% of cases. The progression of symptoms is often insidious and tumors may be voluminous by the time of diagnosis.

In terms of imaging differential diagnosis, search result [5] mentions colonic perforation from foreign body with colonoscopic concern for malignancy, colonic diverticulitis, and large bowel obstruction as possible considerations.

It's worth noting that a definitive diagnosis can only be made through histopathological examination of tissue samples. A thorough clinical evaluation, imaging studies (such as CT or MRI), and endoscopic examinations may help narrow down the differential diagnosis, but further investigation is often necessary to confirm the presence and type of cancer.

References:

[4] Carcinoma of the transverse colon accounts for 10% of all colorectal cancer. Diagnosis is often delayed and complicated forms (perforation, fistulization, obstruction) occur in 30-50% of cases. [5] Colonic perforation from FB with colonoscopic concern for malignancy · Colonic diverticulitis · Large bowel ...

Additional Information

oboInOwl#hasOBONamespace
disease_ontology
oboInOwl#id
DOID:261
core#notation
DOID:261
oboInOwl#hasDbXref
UMLS_CUI:C0153434
oboInOwl#hasExactSynonym
malignant tumor of transverse colon
rdf-schema#label
transverse colon cancer
rdf-schema#subClassOf
http://purl.obolibrary.org/obo/DOID_219
relatedICD
http://example.org/icd10/C18.4
22-rdf-syntax-ns#type
http://www.w3.org/2002/07/owl#Class
owl#equivalentClass
t418537
rdf-schema#domain
https://w3id.org/def/predibionto#has_symptom_9856

Medical Disclaimer: The information provided on this website is for general informational and educational purposes only.

It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with questions about your medical condition.