Colon cancer (Colorectal cancer). Symptoms, diagnosis and treatment methods for colon and rectal cancer Rectal and colon cancer symptoms and signs

Such a dangerous disease as colon cancer does not have pronounced symptoms, so it is difficult to detect the disease in the early stages. Survival when diagnosed with oncology depends on the stage at which the disease is detected, how quickly the oncology develops, and on a number of other reasons. Does the age of men or women affect the onset of the disease, what causes cancerous lumps in the body, and is the disease treated? folk remedies?

Colon cancer is usually diagnosed at a late stage, which minimizes the chances of recovery.

Definition

Colon cancer is a disease characterized by the appearance of a malignant compaction on the mucous membrane of the organ and its bend. The factors that trigger bowel cancer are unknown, but men suffer from this disease more often than women. Colon cancer is a common disease among older people.

Colon cancer manifests itself and is diagnosed at stages 3-4, in which case the prognosis for survival (how long the patient will live) and recovery decreases, the cancer metastasizes to the lymph nodes and nearby organs: liver, stomach, pancreas, genitourinary system. When the liver is damaged, hepatic hepatitis develops and the patient progresses to liver failure. When the stomach is affected by metastases, the digestion process worsens, the patient develops anemia, food starvation, and against the background of such signs there is rapid weight loss.

Classification and stages

Depending on the rate and how much the compaction grows, it is released:
- exophytic form, when the neoplasm grows in the lumen or flexure of the colon;
- the endophytic form is localized in the thickness of the intestinal tissue;
- with a saucer-shaped shape, both of the above options are combined.
Depending on the factors of origin, there is a classification:
- adenocarcinoma is the most common and complicated variant of a malignant neoplasm, formed from cells of glandular tissues; older people are at risk; the lower the degree of differentiation, the more dangerous the disease and the more difficult it is to treat;
- signet ring cell seal forms on the organ in the form of a ring, this type of neoplasm is difficult to cure, death occurs within 3-4 years;
- squamous cell tumor is common, tends to quickly metastasize, the descending section is affected, and the patient’s death is highly likely;
- melanoma consists of cells that are pigmented by melanocytes, is localized in the anal region and descending part of the intestine, and metastasizes.
Depending on how advanced colon cancer is and whether it has metastases, there is the following classification of stages:
- at stage 1, the tumor reaches a size of 1−1.5 cm, the lymph nodes are not affected, the tumor has not metastasized to tissues and neighboring organs; Surgical removal of the tumor, chemotherapy and radio irradiation are prescribed; if the therapy is adequate, they live a long time;
- at stage 2, the tumor size reaches 2−5 cm, the lymph nodes are not affected or are affected, but only slightly; surgical removal will bring results together with chemotherapy;
- at stage 3, the neoplasm is 5 cm or larger in size, affects the lymphatic system and nearby tissues and organs, and a complication arises; Surgery is rarely prescribed; chemotherapy is performed at the patient’s request;
- at stage 4, the tumor affects the entire organ and metastasizes to neighboring organs: liver, gallbladder, stomach, this stage does not require resection, they do not live long, survival rate is up to 10%.

Causes

Bad habits, poor nutrition, untreated gastrointestinal diseases, poor ecology, age-related changes become the causes of the development of colon cancer.

When studying the etiology of malignant neoplasms, doctors did not come to a unanimous conclusion as to why people get cancer. But studies have shown that those at risk are people whose disease is inherited, the pathology is caused by genetic changes in organism. At risk categories:

age over 55 years;
development of the inflammatory process in the intestines, its complications;
poor nutrition;
insufficient physical mobility of a person, sedentary lifestyle;
abuse alcoholic drinks, smoking;
the formation of polyps on the intestinal epithelium, with unfavorable conditions they develop into cancer.

Signs of Colon Cancer

The first symptoms of colon cancer in the human body are characteristic of stages 3–4, when the patient feels pain and weight loss. When the disease has just begun, there are no signs; if the tumor appears in the ascending region, it certain time won't bother you. The diagnosis of the disease occurs during a routine medical examination, when a blood test shows a deviation from the norm and tumor markers are exceeded.

Early on

In the early stages of the growth of a malignant tumor, a person experiences pain in the abdominal area. The pain manifests itself at different times of the day, does not depend on what or how much a person has eaten, and is localized in the place where the tumor is located. The patient loses his appetite and experiences weight loss. After eating, increased gas formation, colic occurs, and intestinal function is disrupted. Digestive problems develop, food is poorly digested, belching occurs, nausea occurs, and the patient feels heaviness.

General symptoms

Symptoms of colon cancer appear at later stages, especially if it is localized in the ascending region, when the tumor big sizes, metastasis began to neighboring organs and tissues. In a person, the functioning of the entire body is disrupted, this leads to a deterioration in health and disruption of many vital processes of the body. General symptoms:

the development of anemia, appears as a result of internal bleeding, and due to poor absorption of iron and vitamin B12;
the person becomes pale, has dry and brittle hair and nails;
fatigue, against the background of developing painful sensations;
nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, weight loss.

Diagnostics

The first symptoms of the tumor process appear in the late stages, so diagnosing and identifying the disease is initially problematic. If cancer is suspected, the patient is referred for biochemical blood tests and if pathological processes occur in the body, the tumor marker will exceed the norm. In addition to a biochemical blood test, the patient is indicated for the following diagnosis of colon cancer:

Colonoscopy is a method that is performed using a colonoscope preparation. This is a flexible tube with a video camera at the end. The tube is inserted into the rectum, it is possible to examine the loops of the ascending and lower sections. In addition to diagnosis using colonoscopy, materials are taken for histological examination.
Sigmoidoscopy is a method when a special tube with an optical video camera at the end is used, but histological material is not taken. Using this research method, the doctor examines the mucous epithelium and sees changes, even if they are small in size and located in loops.
Fluoroscopy is performed in patients with suspected cancer when the above methods are contraindicated. X-ray examination includes computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging, which reveal the extent of organ damage by tumor and metastases, even if it is located in intestinal loops. A chest x-ray is indicated if metastasis to the lungs is suspected.

Colon cancer primarily affects the epithelial lining of its walls.

The anatomical structure of the large intestine, which is the final section of the gastrointestinal tract (starting from the ileocecal valve, separating the large intestine and ending with the anus), is represented by five sections:

The cecum ends in a process called the appendix.
The ascending colon, located on the right side of the abdomen.
Transverse colon, extending transversely to the left side of the abdomen.
The descending colon continues the transverse colon and runs down the left side of the abdomen.
The sigmoid colon, located in the pelvic cavity.
A relatively short rectum ending in the anus.

Definition and Statistics

Colon cancer, called colorectal, is a cancer that develops from epithelial tissues lining the walls of any of its five sections.

Since in the medical literature the large intestine is often called the large intestine, let us immediately say that both of these concepts are synonymous and interchangeable.

Medical statistics indicate the steady progression of this formidable disease: throughout the world, five hundred thousand new patients (usually residents of industrialized countries) become ill with colon cancer every year.

The lowest (five people per 100,000 population) incidence rates are in Africa, average (33 per 100,000 people) in the southern and eastern regions of Europe, high (52 per 100,000 inhabitants) in North America and the western regions of Europe.

In the structure of male oncology, colon cancer occupies the third position (after and ), in the structure of female oncology it occupies the second position (second to ). Men are affected by this disease 1.5 times more often than women.

Colon cancer can affect people of any age (including children), but most often it affects older people. age group: in persons over 60 years of age it is observed in 28% of cases, in patients over 70 years of age – in 18%.

Interestingly, in individuals whose age exceeds 80 years, the incidence of colon cancer sharply decreases to the levels characteristic of younger patients.

It is characterized by late detection: in the majority (up to 70%) of patients it is detected already at stage 3-4. To date, it has been established that colon cancer develops from adenomas of a certain type (villous, tubular and tubular-villous structure). The process of development of a malignant tumor of the colon develops from 10 to 15 years.

Classification

Based on the nature of their growth, malignant tumors of the large intestine are divided into:

exophytic forms growing into the lumen of the affected intestine;
endophytic forms developing in the thickness of the intestinal wall;
saucer-shaped forms that combine the characteristics of both forms described above.

Depending on the location of the pathological process and cellular structure tumor tissues, cancer is represented by many types.

When localized in the colon, a malignant tumor can be represented by:

(the frequency of its distribution is more than 80%);
mucous adenocarcinoma;
undifferentiated neoplasm;
mucocellular cancer;
unclassified cancer.

When the rectum is affected, it is represented by all of the above types, characteristic of, as well as:

basal cell;
glandular squamous cell carcinoma.

Reasons for the development of pathology

The following risk factors contribute to the development of colon cancer:

Age over fifty years.
The presence of inflammatory diseases of the colon (nonspecific,).
Hereditary predisposition (the presence of a similar pathology in close relatives increases the risk of developing colon cancer several times). About a quarter of all cases are caused by a genetic factor.
Ethnicity. People from the eastern region of Europe and of Jewish origin are most susceptible to colon cancer.
Poor nutrition, which boils down to eating foods that are low in fiber but contain a large number of fats and refined carbohydrates, abuse of meat dishes and yeast bread.
Insufficient level of physical activity, which provokes a decrease in intestinal motility and the development of constipation.
Addiction to and.
. A polyp localized on the walls of the colon can eventually develop into a malignant tumor.

Clinical manifestations

Colon cancer at the very beginning of its development is completely asymptomatic and can only be detected by chance, during a clinical examination or during bowel examination procedures performed in connection with another disease (suspected or already identified).

Symptoms of colon cancer in the early stages

As the malignant tumor grows, the following first signs develop:

Pain in the abdomen (abdominal pain syndrome), different different character and the degree of intensity depending on the location of the tumor process. They can be cramping, aching, pressing.
Constant discomfort in the abdomen, accompanied by rumbling and increased gas formation.
Irregular bowel movements, characterized by alternating diarrhea and constipation.
Constant belching, frequent attacks of vomiting.
Heaviness and feeling of fullness in the stomach.

General symptoms

General symptoms that develop in the later stages of colon cancer indicate a disruption in the functioning of other internal organs and systems.

It is characterized by:

The presence of anemia caused by bleeding and impaired absorption of iron and vitamin B12, necessary for the formation of hemoglobin and red blood cells.
Pale and dry skin, brittle hair, brittle nails.
Decreased performance, accompanied by severe weakness, dizziness and headaches.
Loss of appetite.
Sharp weight loss.

Signs in women and men

Men more often (in about 60% of cases) develop rectal cancer, and women (57%) develop cancer of various parts of the colon. There are no specific signs in the clinical course of colon cancer in representatives of different sexes.

Stages and their survival prognosis

For colon cancer, the five-year survival rate of patients is directly dependent on the stage of its detection:

At stage 1, characterized by a small tumor that does not leave the mucous and submucosal layer of the intestinal wall and has not yet spread to the lymph nodes, the survival rate is 95%.
At stage 2, when a malignant neoplasm that has begun to grow in muscle layer, affects more than half of the intestine (and a single penetration into the intestine may be observed), the survival rate is 75%.
At stage 3, characterized by tumor growth into the serosa or its metastasis to a number of regional lymph nodes, only half of the patients survive.
At stage 4, when the pathological process has spread to the tissues of nearby organs and the process of distant metastasis has begun, the prognosis for survival does not exceed 10%.

Metastasis

Colon tumors most often metastasize to:

, which receives most (75%) of the blood entering it from the portal vein, fed by internal organs (including the intestines). It is this circumstance that promotes metastasis. Colorectal cancer that has metastasized to the liver manifests itself as exhaustion, vomiting, nausea, jaundice, the development of ascites (accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity), pain and itching.
Peritoneum - a thin connective tissue film lining the inner surface of the abdominal cavity and covering everything internal organs. After a malignant tumor grows through the tissue of the intestinal wall, it affects the peritoneum, forming foci that gradually spread to its neighboring areas, simultaneously affecting the neighboring organs covered by it.
. Colon cancer that has metastasized to this organ is manifested by a constant cough, chest pain, shortness of breath, and hemoptysis.

Complications

Along with metastasis, colon cancer produces a number of complications, ending with:

Complete (due to the blocking of its lumen by tumor tissues).
Perforation of the intestinal walls, associated with the formation of holes through which cancer cells and intestinal contents can enter the abdominal cavity.
Formation of pathological communication between intestinal loops and adjacent organs.
Compression of internal organs.
Difficulty urinating.
Recurrence of a malignant tumor.

Diagnostics

Early is complicated by the absence of characteristic symptoms at the very beginning of the development of the tumor process.

Endoscopic methods

Endoscopic methods include the following procedures:

. The object of study using a sigmoidoscope is the rectum and lower parts of the sigmoid colon. A flexible tube lubricated with gel and equipped with powerful optics that can magnify the resulting image many times, inserted through the anus, makes it possible to detect the presence of the most minor pathological changes in the intestinal mucosa.
Colonoscopy. The colonoscopy procedure is performed using a colonoscope, which also has optical system and a video camera connected to the monitor. The ability to manipulate the device allows the doctor not only to detect the presence of pathology, but also to remove polyps, as well as take material for a biopsy. Colonoscopy helps to look at the condition of the entire large intestine.

X-ray

X-ray methods are represented by the following procedures:

Barium enema. Before the procedure, the patient is given an enema containing a suspension of barium sulfate, after which a series of x-rays are taken. The barium suspension, which evenly covers the intestinal walls, creates a “filling defect” in the image, which makes it possible to detect the presence of polyps or cancerous tumors.
. This method, used when it is necessary to detect metastases, allows you to take multiple layer-by-layer images of the organ under study using X-rays.
. The MRI procedure is also intended for layer-by-layer visualization of the tissues being studied, but only through electromagnetic radiation. The absence of ionizing radiation makes it safer.
Chest X-ray. The procedure is indispensable for identifying metastases in the lungs.
. Given the high need of cancer cells for sugar, the PET procedure uses sugar labeled with radioactive substances. The accumulation of these substances in a certain area of the body indicates the presence of a cancerous tumor. Using a special camera, the doctor can determine its location and size.

Genetic testing

This type of examination, aimed at identifying genes in the patient’s genetic code that are responsible for the transformation of healthy cells into cancer cells, is performed if the patient has close relatives suffering from colorectal cancer.

Laboratory methods

Laboratory tests for a patient's colon cancer include:

Study .
Performance .

Ultrasonography

The procedure, which uses ultrasound waves to obtain a three-dimensional image of internal organs, allows you to detect a tumor, determine its size and determine the presence of distant metastases.

What tumor markers are determined?

With colon cancer, levels may be elevated:

carcinoembryonic antigen;
, produced by cancer cells that have affected the tissue of the pancreas and colon;
, identifying tumors of the gastrointestinal tract and pancreas;
, appearing in the blood during, colon and.

Test and how much does it cost?

A person who has discovered alarming symptoms can test his stool at home for the presence of occult blood.

To do this, just go to the pharmacy, purchase a test for colon cancer and perform a series of simple procedures, following the manufacturer’s recommendations.

The cost of one home test for colon cancer from Russian manufacturers does not exceed 250 rubles. A foreign-made test will cost 2,200 rubles.

Treatment

The leading step is surgical intervention. Most often, patients undergo radical surgery: partial hemicolectomy or colectomy. The operation can be open (performed through an incision in the abdominal wall) or laparoscopic, performed through several small incisions into which manipulators and a miniature video system are inserted. If the lymph nodes are affected, lymphadenectomy is performed.
An equally important method of treatment is the use of medicines, inhibiting the division of cancer cells, as a result of which the tumor decreases in size, stops its rapid growth, or reduces the likelihood of its metastasis to other organs. Chemotherapy can be used before surgery, after surgery, and as the primary treatment for inoperable forms of cancer.
Radiotherapy, which uses x-rays to destroy cancer cells, is a third therapeutic option for treating colon cancer.

Used preoperatively, it can lead to a significant reduction in cancer tumor size. When treating a patient who has undergone surgery, radiation therapy destroys abnormal cells remaining after surgery, preventing recurrence of the malignancy.

In what cases is a colostomy performed?

A colostomy is an artificially created opening with a section of the colon inserted into it, intended for the removal of gases and feces.

Indications for colostomy for rectal cancer are:

Removal of most of the tumor-affected colon.
There is a high risk of complications that may arise when the ends of the colon are sutured after surgery to remove a fragment of it.
Impossibility of tumor removal. In this case, it is applied to restore intestinal patency in order to remove gases and feces.
The presence of complications accompanying the tumor process (the occurrence of fistulas, suppuration).
Tumor growth into adjacent organs.
The presence of severe inflammation in the large intestine after radiation therapy.

A colostomy can be temporary or permanent. In the first option, after a certain period of time, another operation is performed, during which the ends of the intestine are sewn together and the hole made in the skin is closed.

Patients who have undergone colostomy are forced to use colostomy bags - special containers for collecting stool.

Diet

Rich in plant fiber, therapeutic diet for colon cancer should:

help cleanse the body;
prevent constipation;
significantly accelerate the removal of toxic substances from the patient’s body.

In case of colorectal cancer, foods containing large amounts of protein and fat should be completely excluded from the diet, replacing them with dishes high in vitamins A and C, complex carbohydrates and plant fiber.

All these substances are found in vegetables (potatoes, cabbage, tomatoes), grains (brown rice, wheat and corn flakes) and fruits (avocado, citrus fruits, bananas).

Having completely abandoned yeast bread, the patient should prefer whole grain or bran varieties.

Prevention

There is no specific prevention for colon cancer.

You can somewhat reduce the risk of its development by doing the following:

Individuals at risk should be screened annually for colon cancer.
People over forty years of age are recommended to undergo a digital rectal examination every year.
Patients over fifty years of age should have a colonoscopy or proctosigmoidoscopy every two years, and an occult blood test once a year.
Regular exercise and constant monitoring of body weight are also beneficial.

Is it possible to get a disability group?

To receive disability for colon cancer, the patient must obtain a medical and social expert opinion.

Before it, the patient must go through:

chest x-ray;
X-ray of the intestine;
biopsy;
medical examination of a number of specialists (including oncologist, therapist, neurologist, etc.

In some cases, the patient is examined in an inpatient setting.

In addition, the patient must submit:

urine and blood samples for general and biochemical analysis;
stool samples to obtain a coprogram and test them for dysbacteriosis.

During the initial examination at the medical and social examination, 95% of patients receive disability group I or II. III group received by patients with persistent moderate disability.

Video about the prevention and diagnosis of colon cancer:

Colon cancer (colorectal cancer) is a serious cancer that develops from the epithelial cells lining the inner surface of the large intestine. This type of oncology is a rapidly progressing disease that is characterized by an increased risk of mortality. What leads to colon cancer, what are the characteristics of the course of the disease, and what do doctors say regarding the prognosis for life if there is a tumor in the rectum? We will answer all these questions in this article.

general information

The large intestine has a complex anatomical structure and is divided into five sections: the cecum, three colons (ascending, transverse and descending), as well as the sigmoid and rectum. An oncological tumor can appear in any of the departments, but according to statistics, it most often forms in the rectum, which is the final section of the large intestine and ends in the anus.

Every year, more than 500,000 people are diagnosed with this malignant tumor, most of them residents of industrialized countries. Statistics show that the lowest incidence of colorectal cancer is among Africans (33 cases per 100,000 population) and representatives of Eastern Europe(52 cases per 100,000 population).

Colon cancer is classified as a “male” cancer, and all because in the stronger half of humanity this type of cancer occurs 1.5 times more often. At the same time, in the structure of cancer in men, colon tumor occupies third place, second only to prostate cancer and lung oncology. In women, this type of disease is in second place, after breast cancer.

In general, colorectal cancer can appear in absolutely any person, regardless of age and gender. However, most often the disease affects people over 60 years of age (28% of cases), and slightly less often people over 70 years of age (18%). Moreover, interestingly, the disease practically does not occur in elderly people over 80 years of age.

A characteristic feature of cancer tumors in the colon is that in 70% of cases they are detected too late, at stages III and IV, while the process of cancer development in the rectum takes an average of 10–15 years. This partly suggests that the population tries to avoid examinations related to the insertion of instruments through the anus, ashamed of such manipulations and turning to doctors only in cases of extreme necessity, when the tumor is already actively growing and spreading metastases.

Reasons for the development of the disease

Medicine does not know the exact causes of colon cancer. However, scientists associate the appearance of tumors with exposure to carcinogens, which are formed from food debris under the influence of a huge amount of bacterial flora (more than a billion per 1 gram).

Predisposing factors for the development of colorectal cancer include:

age over 50 years;
hereditary predisposition (the presence of a similar cancer tumor in close relatives increases the likelihood of rectal cancer by 5 times);
ethnicity (residents of the USA and Western Europe are more likely to experience this type of cancer);
unhealthy diet, low in fiber, but containing large amounts of refined carbohydrates and animal fats (in people who do not eat meat, this type oncology practically does not occur);
insufficient level of physical activity, as a result of which intestinal motility decreases and the number of constipation increases;
addiction to smoking and drinking alcoholic beverages;
work in hazardous industries (involving contact with asbestos).

Factors in the development of this deadly disease include some pathologies of the large intestine, in particular Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, as well as the appearance of polyps on the intestinal walls. Any of these diseases, in the absence of adequate treatment, can cause a developing cancer tumor.

Classification of tumors

Based on the nature of the development of the tumor, this type of oncology is divided into 3 forms:

exophytic (the tumor grows into the lumen of the affected intestine);
endophytic (tumor grows into the intestinal wall);
saucer-shaped (combines both shapes).

If we talk about the types of cancer, then a lot depends on the location of the cancer tumor:

1. The following may appear in the colon:

adenocarcinoma (it is found in 80% of cases);
mucinous adenocarcinoma;
mucocellular cancer;
unclassified cancer.

2. All types of oncology that are characteristic of the colon are found in the rectum, as well as:

basal cell carcinoma;
squamous cell carcinoma;
glandular squamous cell carcinoma.

Symptoms of the disease

Above, we already drew attention to the fact that oncology in the large intestine develops over more than 10 years, but it is usually discovered during the period when the tumor reaches a decent size and affects neighboring organs. This also happens because in the early stages the disease occurs with virtually no symptoms. During this period, it is discovered by chance, during an examination of the large intestine to identify or treat another disease.

Signs of cancer in the early stages

However, if you pay close attention to your own health, a person may suspect the development of oncology at the initial stage of tumor appearance. The following symptoms should alert you:

abdominal pain, which can be cramping, pulling or aching;
discomfort in the abdomen, which is complemented by increased gas formation and rumbling in the abdomen;
irregular bowel movements, in which constipation gives way to diarrhea and vice versa;
frequent nausea, vomiting and constant belching;
heaviness in the stomach and a feeling of fullness.

General signs of the disease

As the tumor grows and develops, symptoms appear, indicating disturbances in the functioning of other organs. This period is characterized by:

the appearance of anemia, which is accompanied by bleeding, as well as impaired absorption of iron and vitamin B12 (substances necessary for the production of hemoglobin);
decreased performance, the appearance of severe fatigue and weakness, which is accompanied by headache and dizziness;
dry and pale skin, brittle nails, increased fragility and massive hair loss;
loss of appetite and rapid weight loss.

Disease stages and survival

As in the case of other oncological pathologies, 5-year survival rate for a malignant tumor in the large intestine depends on the stage at which treatment of the disease began.

Stage I. The tumor is small in size (not exceeding half the circumference of the intestine) and does not leave the mucous layer. The neoplasm does not metastasize and does not affect the lymph nodes. The survival rate when treating the disease at this stage is 95%.

Stage II. In this case, the emerging tumor begins to grow into the thickness of the intestinal layer. In this case, isolated lesions of the lymph nodes may be observed. The survival rate at this stage is 75%.

Stage III. A malignant tumor affects the serous membrane and also metastasizes to nearby lymph nodes. When detected and treated promptly, the five-year survival threshold reaches no more than 50% of patients.

Stage IV. At this stage, the tumor affects a significant part of the large intestine, and malignant cells penetrate into the lymphatic system and distant organs. The use of any therapeutic measures in this case ensures a five-year survival rate of no more than 10% of cancer patients.

It should be noted that a tumor in the large intestine most often metastasizes to:

liver. It is for this reason that the patient experiences exhaustion, nausea and vomiting, the development of jaundice and ascites (fluid accumulation in the peritoneum). In addition, liver damage is accompanied by itchy skin and abdominal pain.
lungs. Damage to the respiratory system by malignant cells provokes chest pain and severe coughing, shortness of breath and hemoptysis.
peritoneum. In this case, a patient with oncology feels discomfort in the stomach, its constant fullness, and also unpleasant symptoms, characteristic of gastritis, stomach ulcers and cholecystitis.

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Complications of cancer

In addition to spreading metastases, during development this disease can cause a number of serious complications, in particular:

compression of internal organs;
perforation of the intestinal walls, with the appearance of holes through which intestinal contents can enter the peritoneum, causing peritonitis;
intestinal obstruction (if the lumen is blocked by an overgrown tumor).

Diagnosis of the disease

If an oncological tumor in the large intestine is suspected, specialists prescribe the following research methods:

1. Endoscopic methods.

These include instrumental methods such as:

Sigmoidoscopy. The sigmoidoscope device is designed specifically for examining the rectum, as well as the lower portion of the sigmoid colon. To do this, a small tube lubricated with gel is inserted into the patient's anus. The device is equipped with optics, and therefore displays an image on the monitor screen in which you can see even the most minor changes in the intestinal mucosa.
Colonoscopy. The colonoscope device also has a video camera, only the flexible tube of this instrument is much longer, which allows you to examine absolutely all parts of the large intestine. Moreover, a colonoscope is a universal device, thanks to which you can remove polyps or take a piece of tissue for a biopsy.

2. X-ray methods

Barium enema. An enema with a barium sulfate suspension allows you to cover the intestinal walls with an even layer, making it possible to distinguish the presence of cancerous tumors and polyps in the pictures.
Ultrasound examination (ultrasound). Using ultrasound waves, specialists examine internal organs, which allows them to identify cancer tumors, determine their size and detect large metastases.
Computed tomography (CT). This research method is carried out to identify tumors and detect metastases.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). This is a more advanced method of tissue visualization, which determines the slightest deviations in the condition of the intestinal mucosa. Moreover, unlike CT, the procedure is performed without ionizing radiation, which means it becomes even safer.
Positron emission tomography (PET). Given the need of cancer tumors for sugar, doctors use the PET method to determine accumulations of radiation sugar and thereby identify the location and size of the tumor.
X-ray of the chest. This study is carried out to identify metastases in the lungs.

3. Laboratory research

Biochemical and general blood test.
Carrying out a histological examination of a piece of affected tissue.
Examination of feces for occult blood.

4. Genetic testing

If the patient has relatives who have had colorectal cancer, he is prescribed a study of genes that are responsible for the degeneration of healthy cells into malignant ones.

There are also tumor markers that can detect cancer in the colon. To do this, it is enough to purchase a test for colorectal cancer at the pharmacy, and after carrying out a series of simple manipulations, examine the stool. If this method gives reason to suspect a malignant tumor, you should immediately visit a proctologist and undergo a professional examination.

Treatment of colorectal cancer

Surgical removal
The main treatment method for this tumor is its surgical removal. Moreover, in most cases, this is a radical operation that can be performed openly, through an incision in the peritoneum, or can be performed using laparoscopy. If malignant cells have affected the lymph nodes, lymphadenectomy cannot be avoided.

Chemotherapy
Such treatment cannot be done without chemotherapy. The introduction of special medications significantly inhibits the division of degenerated cells, stopping the rapid growth of the tumor and preventing metastasis. This treatment is effective both before and after surgery to prevent relapse of the disease.

Radiotherapy
This is another method of fighting cancer tumors, which destroys tumor cells. It is used before surgery to reduce the size of the tumor, and also after surgery to eliminate remaining cancer cells.

Prevention of disease

As such, there is no specific prevention of colon cancer. Nevertheless, doctors give recommendations that allow you to protect yourself as much as possible from this disease. In this plan:

people over 40 years of age who are at risk for this pathology should visit a proctologist annually and undergo a digital examination of the rectum;
people over 50 years of age must undergo an occult blood test every year, and a colonoscopy every two years;
It is necessary to monitor your own weight and maintain physical activity.

Diet food

The most important point in preventing this disease is changing your own diet. In order not to encounter colorectal cancer, doctors recommend giving up foods containing a lot of proteins and fats and replacing them with foods rich in complex carbohydrates, fiber, vitamins A and C. Thus, you should limit your consumption of meat as much as possible, and at the same time increase the consumption of vegetables and fruits, cereals and berries. In addition, it is necessary to completely abandon yeast bread, replacing it with whole grain bread and bran.
Good health to you!

Colon cancer is a malignant tumor that is formed as a result of metastases affecting the mucous membrane and walls of the large intestine. Colon cancer is most often diagnosed in men and women aged 50–60 years. It is noteworthy that among vegetarians, diseases of this type are diagnosed much less frequently. In the CIS countries, this disease ranks fourth among all cancer diseases.

Etiology

Colon cancer can develop due to the following factors:

improper, unbalanced diet;
ailments of the colon;
genetic predisposition;
old age.

If a person’s daily diet is dominated by meat products, sweets and flour (especially fresh baked goods), but there are no cereals, vegetables and fruits, then the risk of developing colon cancer increases significantly.

Pathogenesis

Most often, tumors are located in the bends of the colon. In view of this, frequent (chronic) use can also cause the development of cancer.

The tumor begins to metastasize through the lymphatic pathways, affecting the nodes of the abdominal aorta. As a consequence of this process, an oncological disease begins to develop - colon cancer. The disease may be accompanied by.

General symptoms

The clinical picture of the disease depends on the location of the tumor. In the early stages of colon cancer, there may be no symptoms at all. As the disease progresses, the following signs may be observed:

frequent urge to defecate, which does not bring relief;
bloated abdomen, discomfort in the form of heaviness;
stool may contain blood;
aversion to food;
weakness.

In some clinical cases, unstable temperature and malaise may be added to the general symptoms. It is noteworthy that the patient does not lose weight, but, on the contrary, may gain some weight.

Depending on the patient’s condition, the overall clinical picture may worsen. The development of acute inflammatory processes is no exception.

The symptoms of colon cancer described above are quite similar to gastrointestinal disorders, food poisoning. Therefore, the patient does not seek medical help in a timely manner. Because of this, diagnosing the disease at an early stage is quite difficult.

Classification

According to the shape of the tumors, colon cancer is:

saucer-shaped;
endophytic;
exophytic.

By the nature of development cancer There are four stages of colon cancer:

first- the tumor is localized only in the mucosal area. Treatment with chemotherapy is effective;
second- the tumor does not metastasize, the symptoms are already more pronounced;
third- metastases begin to develop, the tumor is already located on the entire intestinal wall;
fourth- the pathological process can affect nearby organs, metastases can be located in the lymph nodes. The prognosis in this case is unfavorable.

But if colon cancer is diagnosed at the first or second stage, the prognosis for treatment can be very favorable.

Possible complications

Since colon cancer can affect other organs as it progresses, there is a significant risk of complications. Colorectal cancer develops most often.

is the development of cancer in the rectal area. The main risk group is people aged 50–60 years. However, in Lately The disease began to affect younger people - 20–30 years old. Both men and women get sick with equal frequency.

Almost any inflammatory process associated with the gastrointestinal tract can be etiological factors. In addition, colorectal cancer can be caused by the following factors:

alcohol abuse;
sedentary lifestyle;
frequent consumption of red meat;
lack of vegetables, fruits and coarse cereals in the diet.

Just like colon cancer, colorectal cancer can be caused by a genetic predisposition.

The symptoms of colorectal cancer are almost identical to colon cancer. But here it is worth noting that the symptoms are very similar to diseases such as:

ulcer;
ulcerative colitis.

Therefore, it is impossible to self-medicate, even with folk remedies. This can only make things worse. At the initial stage, colorectal cancer is well treated with medication, diet and chemotherapy.

Diagnostics

When diagnosing a disease, not only general symptoms are taken into account. The doctor takes into account the entire medical history, personal and family history. The medical history, if cancer is suspected, gives quite a lot useful information– what diseases the person has already had, does he have a genetic predisposition, and so on. That is why the medical history should always be with the patient.

The patient's lifestyle is also taken into account. Only after a personal examination and a detailed study of the history of previous diseases, the doctor can prescribe a diagnostic program.

The standard program includes laboratory and instrumental studies. Mandatory laboratory tests include the following:

general stool analysis.

Instrumental research includes the following methods:

X-ray examination of the abdominal organs;
laparoscopy;
biopsy.

As for biopsy, this instrumental diagnostic method is used only at the third stage of development of the disease, when there is a suspicion of the development of a pathological process in other organs.

Only based on all the tests performed, the patient’s medical history and general medical history, the doctor can make an accurate diagnosis and prescribe the correct treatment.

Treatment

Treatment of colon cancer depends on what exactly caused the formation of the disease, the nature of the localization and the stage of development of the disease. This is almost always a surgical intervention.

Before the operation is performed, the patient is carefully prepared for this process. In 3–4 days, the intestines should be completely cleansed - the patient adheres to strict diet and slag-free nutrition. In addition, two days before surgery, a daily enema and castor oil are prescribed. Along with this, the patient is prescribed special antibiotics.

After the operation, the patient should strictly adhere to the diet. Meals should be carried out only strictly on time. On the second day after the operation, the patient can drink and eat liquid food. The patient should maintain this diet until complete recovery.

In the first stage of development of the disease, chemotherapy and drug treatment. But, this is only if there is no genetic predisposition to the disease and suspicion of the development of complications. In general, the prognosis at this stage of cancer is favorable.

Diet

Treatment for colon cancer involves following a diet both before and after surgery. If a patient is diagnosed with a genetic predisposition to this disease, then the diet must be followed constantly. By the way, proper nutrition is a good measure to prevent this type of disease.

The diet for this cancer disease excludes the following foods:

animal fats;
sweets (should be, if not excluded, then at least minimized);
products with dyes, chemical additives;
spicy, too salty and smoked.

The patient's diet must include foods that contain selenium. It is this element that actively fights infected cells. Therefore, the diet should include the following foods:

sea fish low-fat varieties;
liver;
eggs;
seafood;
cereals (rice, buckwheat, wheat);
legumes, dried fruits;
broccoli, parsnip, parsley.

The patient’s nutrition with such a diet will be balanced, which gives positive results. If you adhere to such a diet and all the doctor’s instructions, the prognosis will be very optimistic.

Prevention

The main preventive measures are timely treatment of all diseases associated with the gastrointestinal tract. In addition, you should adhere to proper nutrition, do not abuse alcohol and maintain healthy image life. This is especially important if a person has a genetic predisposition to cancer.

If you have the symptoms described above, it is better to consult a gastroenterologist rather than self-medicate. The earlier colon cancer is diagnosed, the greater the chance of a full recovery.

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