Cancerous Polyps Removed: Consequences, Further Procedures, and Additional Information
Colon cancer, a potentially life-threatening condition, can be managed effectively with a combination of treatments tailored to the stage and characteristics of the tumor.
Sessile serrated polyps, known for their high risk of cancer, are often hard to detect and may require a biopsy for diagnosis. If a polyp is found to be cancerous, a treatment plan will be outlined by cancer specialists.
In its early stages, surgery alone is typically sufficient to remove the cancerous tissue and nearby lymph nodes. However, as the cancer progresses, treatment may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy.
For stage 2 colon cancer, surgery remains the primary treatment to remove the tumor and nearby lymph nodes. Chemotherapy may be recommended for high-risk cases, such as tumors with certain aggressive features or inadequate lymph node sampling.
In stage 3, treatment includes surgery followed by chemotherapy to eliminate remaining cancer cells and reduce recurrence risk. Radiation therapy might be used in some cases depending on tumor location and spread.
For stage 4 (metastatic) colon cancer, a combination of treatments is common, including surgery (if feasible), chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. Treatment is tailored based on the cancer's response and patient condition.
Common chemotherapy agents include fluorouracil, capecitabine, oxaliplatin, and irinotecan. Regimens like FOLFOX or CAPOX are frequently used. Targeted agents such as bevacizumab or EGFR inhibitors can be added based on tumor genetics. Biomarker testing helps to guide the efficacy of targeted and immunotherapies, enabling personalized treatment plans.
Radiation therapy is less common in colon cancer compared to rectal cancer but may be used in specific scenarios, especially for metastatic disease or local control. Ablation therapies may also be options for metastatic lesions.
If the cancer has not spread, the doctor may suggest removing the cancerous polyps through a colonoscopy. If the cancer has spread to nearby tissues or lymph nodes, the 5-year relative survival rate is 72%. If the cancer spreads to distant parts of the body, the 5-year relative survival rate is 13%.
Polyps do not present any symptoms, but they sometimes cause blood to appear in the stool or cause abdominal pain, constipation, or diarrhea. A hemicolectomy, partial colectomy, or segmental resection involves removing a part of the colon. Large or difficult-to-reach polyps may require removal during a laparoscopy, a surgical procedure.
It is important to note that normal biopsy results mean that no cancerous or abnormal cells were present in the sample, and the polyp is labeled benign and not cancerous. On the other hand, abnormal biopsy results mean that the pathologist detected cancerous cells, indicating that the polyp is cancerous.
In summary, colon cancer treatment begins with surgery if feasible and may be combined with chemotherapy, radiation, targeted therapy, or immunotherapy according to the stage and molecular features of the tumor. Regular screenings and early detection can significantly improve outcomes for those affected by colon cancer.
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