Overview
Definition
Cancer of the colon or rectum.
Epidemiology
3rd most common cancer worldwide.
Etiology & Risk Factors
- Adenomatous polyps
- FAP/Lynch syndrome
- Low fiber/High red meat diet
- IBD
Clinical Symptoms
- Change in bowel habits
- Hematochezia/Melena
- Unexplained weight loss
- Iron deficiency anemia
Clinical Approach
Diagnosis
- Colonoscopy with biopsy
- Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT)
Management
- Surgical resection
- FOLFOX Chemotherapy
- Targeted therapy (VEGF/EGFR inhibitors)
Complications
- Liver metastasis
- Bowel obstruction
- Bowel perforation