Colon Tumors: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Screening Guidelines

Colon tumor

Hello Doctor: My mother is 63 years old.
She underwent a colonoscopy in April 2010, and the doctor reported the presence of internal hemorrhoids but no other issues.
However, starting in November 2011, she began experiencing rectal bleeding.
The initial diagnosis at the hospital was hemorrhoids.
Today, she underwent another colonoscopy, and the doctor found two lesions 25 centimeters inside the anal canal.
A biopsy has been performed, but due to intestinal atrophy, the colonoscope could not be advanced further.
I would like to ask if this area is the sigmoid colon? Additionally, how often should a colonoscopy be performed? Besides tumors, what other possibilities could the presence of these two lesions indicate?

Benzi, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2012/01/03

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery

The area approximately 25 centimeters inside the anus corresponds to the upper rectum and the sigmoid colon.
Generally, a colonoscopy should be performed every 3 to 5 years, unless there are abnormal findings or symptoms present.
For individuals with a history of polyps or tumors, it is recommended to undergo the procedure every 1 to 2 years.
The description of "two things" is too vague to determine the exact issue.
However, polyps are the most common lesions found in the colon, and the majority are benign, although there is a possibility of malignant transformation.
The risk of tumors should not be overlooked, so it is advisable to have a physician provide a detailed explanation.

Reply Date: 2012/01/03

More Info

Understanding colon tumors, particularly in the context of symptoms, diagnosis, and screening guidelines, is crucial for early detection and management of colorectal cancer. Your mother's case highlights several important aspects of colon health and the need for vigilant monitoring, especially given her age and history.

Symptoms of Colon Tumors
Colon tumors can present with a variety of symptoms, which may include:
1. Rectal Bleeding: This is often one of the first signs noticed by patients. Blood in the stool can vary in appearance, from bright red (indicating bleeding from the lower colon or rectum) to darker, tarry stools (suggesting bleeding from higher up in the digestive tract).

2. Changes in Bowel Habits: This can include diarrhea, constipation, or a change in the consistency of the stool. Some patients may experience a feeling of incomplete evacuation after a bowel movement.

3. Abdominal Discomfort: This may manifest as cramping, bloating, or persistent abdominal pain.

4. Unexplained Weight Loss: This can occur due to a variety of factors, including decreased appetite or malabsorption.

5. Fatigue: Often related to anemia from chronic blood loss.

Diagnosis
The diagnosis of colon tumors typically involves several steps:
1. Colonoscopy: This is the gold standard for visualizing the colon and rectum. During this procedure, doctors can identify abnormal growths, take biopsies, and remove polyps.

2. Biopsy: If polyps or suspicious lesions are found during a colonoscopy, a biopsy is performed to determine whether the tissue is benign or malignant.

3. Imaging Studies: In some cases, additional imaging such as CT scans or MRIs may be used to assess the extent of the disease, especially if cancer is diagnosed.

Screening Guidelines
Screening for colorectal cancer is recommended to begin at age 45 for average-risk individuals, but earlier screening may be necessary for those with a family history of colorectal cancer or other risk factors. The frequency of screening can depend on the findings from previous colonoscopies:
- If polyps are found: Follow-up colonoscopy may be recommended every 3 to 5 years, depending on the type and number of polyps.

- If no polyps are found: A colonoscopy may be recommended every 10 years.

Your Mother's Case
In your mother's situation, the discovery of two lesions during her colonoscopy raises several considerations:
1. Location: The area 25 cm from the anus is indeed within the sigmoid colon, which is the last part of the colon before it connects to the rectum.
2. Possible Findings: The two "things" identified could be polyps, which are often benign, or they could represent more serious conditions, such as adenomas or even malignancies. The biopsy results will be crucial in determining the nature of these lesions.

3. Follow-Up: Given her history of rectal bleeding and the findings from the recent colonoscopy, it is essential to await the biopsy results to understand the next steps. If the lesions are found to be cancerous, further staging and treatment options will need to be discussed.

Conclusion
In summary, understanding the symptoms, diagnostic processes, and screening guidelines for colon tumors is vital for early detection and treatment. Your mother's case underscores the importance of regular screenings, especially given her symptoms and previous findings. It is essential to maintain open communication with her healthcare provider to ensure appropriate follow-up and management based on the biopsy results. Regular monitoring and a proactive approach to any changes in her health will be key in managing her colon health effectively.

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