What is the Diagnosis of Colon Cancer?
First of all, a person with symptoms has to undergo screening.
In the screening, your doctor may prescribe the following tests
1. Blood Test
Blood tests would not directly diagnose colon cancer but they would help in checking the health of other related organs like the liver or kidney
2. Colonoscopy
In the colonoscopy, a long, flexible tube attached to a camera is used to see the entire colon.
Doctors may take samples for further study from the colon if they find any problematic areas in the colon.
If you have been diagnosed with colon cancer, then the doctor may recommend further tests like a CT scan of pelvic and abdominal areas. It helps doctors to check the extent of colon cancer. Up extent to which colon cancer is spread in the body is directly related to the treatment.
The extent of colon cancer helps doctors in deciding appropriate treatment.
Role of MedicoExperts in Colon Cancer Screening
MedicoExperts play a crucial role in colon cancer screening. They can help individuals understand the importance of screening tests and identify the appropriate screening method based on their age, family history, and other risk factors.
For instance, a healthcare professional, such as a primary care physician or gastroenterologist, may recommend routine screening tests, such as colonoscopies, for early detection of colon cancer in individuals with certain risk factors, such as a family history of the disease.
Additionally, experts can help individuals understand the test results and provide recommendations for follow-up testing or treatment if necessary.
When it comes to the treatment journey of colon cancer, MedicoExpert tumor boards can play an important role in determining the best possible care plan.
A tumor board brings together doctors with different expertise such as medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, surgeons, and pathologists, to review patient cases and determine the most optimal treatment plan.
The involvement of a tumor board can lead to improved treatment outcomes, reduced treatment-related morbidity, and increased patient satisfaction. Patients may reach out to tumor boards to discuss complex cases or situations where different treatment approaches may be considered.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q1. What tests are commonly used to diagnose colon cancer?
A. Doctors use several methods to diagnose colon cancer, including colonoscopies, imaging tests (like CT scans), and biopsies. Colonoscopies are the most common screening tool as they allow direct visualization and removal of suspicious polyps.
Q2. What are the benefits of colonoscopies?
A. Colon cancer can often be avoided and treated. Colonoscopies can assist doctors in detecting and removing polyps in the colon before they become cancerous. People over the age of 50, as well as those who are at high risk, should have regular colonoscopies.
Next in Colon Cancer
Author Bio:
Dr. Yashashree Joshi – MBBS, MD (Philippines)
Dr. Yashashree Joshi, MD, is a globally-trained oncologist with a robust academic background and extensive experience in pioneering cancer treatments. Dedicated to patient-centered care, she continually integrates the latest advancements in oncology to provide her patients with innovative and personalized treatment plans.
Content Medically Reviewed By MedicoExperts Editorial & Clinically Review Board
