Colon Cancer (cont.)
What tests can be done to detect colon cancer?
When colon cancer is suspected, either a lower GI
series (barium enema x-ray) or colonoscopy is performed to confirm
the diagnosis and to localize the tumor.
A barium enema involves taking x-rays of the colon
and the rectum after the patient is given an enema with a white,
chalky liquid containing barium. The barium outlines the large
intestines on the x-rays. Tumors and other abnormalities appear
as dark shadows on the x-rays. For more information, please read
the Lower Gastrointestinal Series
(Barium Enema) article.
Colonoscopy is a procedure whereby a doctor inserts
a long, flexible viewing tube into the rectum for the purpose
of inspecting the inside of the entire colon. Colonoscopy is generally
considered more accurate than barium enema x-rays, especially
in detecting small polyps. If colon polyps are found, they are
usually removed through the colonoscope and sent to the pathologist.
The pathologist examines the polyps under the microscope to check
for cancer. While the majority of the polyps removed through the
colonoscopes are benign, many are precancerous. Removal of
precancerous polyps prevents the future development of colon cancer
from these polyps. For more information, please read the Colonoscopy article.
If cancerous growths are found during colonoscopy,
small tissue samples (biopsies) can be obtained and examined under
the microscope to confirm the diagnosis. If colon cancer is confirmed
by a biopsy, staging examinations are performed to determine whether
the cancer has already spread to other organs. Since colorectal
cancer tends to spread to the lungs and the liver, staging tests
usually include chest x-rays, ultrasonography, or a CAT scan of
the lungs, liver, and abdomen.
Sometimes, the doctor may obtain a blood test for CEA (carcinoembyonic antigen).
CEA is a substance produced by
some cancer cells. It is sometimes found in high levels in patients
with colorectal cancer, especially when the disease has spread.
Next: How can colon cancer be prevented? »
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