Colon cancer is a malignant neoplasm that develops in the lining of the colon. It most commonly affects the population after the age of 50, although in recent years there has been a trend towards 'rejuvenation' of the disease. The most frequent localization is in the rectum-sigma area, followed by the colon ascendens.
The exact cause of the development of the disease is not known, but there are predisposing factors. Most often, carcinoma develops on the basis of a malignant polyp of the intestine.
It usually starts as small clusters of cells called polyps that form in the colon. Polyps are usually not cancerous, but some can turn into colon cancer over time.
Polyps often cause no symptoms. For this reason, doctors recommend regular screening tests to look for polyps in the colon. Finding and removing such polyps helps prevent colon cancer.
Risk factors for the development of the disease
- age - people over 50 are more vulnerable
- inflammatory bowel diseases- ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease
- obesity
- Heredity- the most common inherited syndromes that increase the risk of colon cancer are familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) and Lynch syndrome, which is also known as hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC),Gardner syndrome , Peutz-Jeghers syndrome and Turcot syndrome
- family history of CRC
- diet poor in fiber, intake of red meats and high-calorie food- although studies do not give a definitive answer, most authors claim that red meats and a diet poor in fiber are a risk factor
- diabetes and insulin resistance
Symptoms
In the beginning, the disease is asymptomatic. Most often patients report constipation, diarrhea and/or alternation of both. Pain, heaviness, abdominal discomfort may occur. Presence of blood in the stool ( it is important to remember that blood in the stool does not necessarily mean you have colon cancer), change in the shape of the feces (thinning), unmotivated weight loss for a short period
- Development of anemic syndrome - patients report weakness, easy fatigue
Diagnosis
Fibrogastroscopy, biopsy and histological verification.
Another possibility is a CT scan of the abdominal organs.
Treatment
It depends on the stage of the disease, localization and general condition of the patient. Whenever possible, the colon is removed with the affected area and adjacent lymph nodes. Restoration of incontinence of the bowel by anastomosis between the remaining parts.
In case of an advanced process, palliative interventions are proceeded - removal of the colostomy, bypass anastomosis.
Adjuvant Treatment- Radiation Therapy and Chemotherapy
Neoadjuvant treatment - Radiotherapy preoperatively followed by surgery.
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