Diagnosing Colon Cancer
Colon cancer is one of the most deadliest types of cancer that anyone can suffer through. One of the biggest dangers of it is how difficult it is for doctors to diagnose it. Also many people do not have the necessary screenings that are used to help spot it until it is too far advanced for it to be treated.
It is important that we understand how to diagnose the problem and the step we need to take when trying to treat it. Even if you do not have any symptoms and your family has no history of this type of cancer you should still have regular screenings. These are the best way to diagnose colon cancer.
Screenings For Low Risk Patients
Most doctors will suggest that you begin screening tests when you are between the age of 45 and 50. These screenings will include a variety of tests that include:
Double contrast barium enema that should be done every five to ten years.
Digital rectal examination and a fecal occult blood test which should be done annually.
Total colonoscopy that should be done every ten years.
Flexible sigmiodoscopy which should be done every five years.
Screening For High Risk Patients
The screenings that are used for low risk patients with no family history or symptoms are different from those that are used for patients who are at a high risk and may have one or two symptoms. They require more advanced testing for a more accurate diagnosis that will also help to determine how far the cancer might be.
They will perform a biopsy or tissue sample from the patient and examine it under a microscope. This will help to confirm their diagnosis.
A digital rectal examination will be done. This will help the doctor to feel for any tumors.
A fecal occult blood test is used to help study any blood that is in the patient’s stool. This may be a sign that they are in the early stages of colon cancer.
If any of these results proves that the diagnosis is colon cancer they will begin other examinations that will help to show how far along the cancer is and if it has spread. The doctor will order a urinalysis, blood tests, carcinoembryonic antigen level, chemical panels, electrolyte panel, imaging tests, and a complete blood count.
