Signs of Precancerous Colon Conditions
Adenomatous polyps are a precancerous condition. They are not cancerous by themselves and are often largely harmless. Their presence, however, indicates abnormal changes to colon
Adenocarcinoma of the Colon Treated Near You in NJ, CT, MA, and the Washington, D.C., Area
Colon cancer is among the most common cancers in the United States and is the third leading cause of cancer deaths. When treating colon cancer, determining the type is imperative. Most colon cancer cases are adenocarcinomas of the colon.
Many patients diagnosed with colon cancer seek care from Regional Cancer Care Associates (RCCA). RCCA is a group of more than 90 medical oncologists and hematologists who treat patients who have solid tumors, blood-based cancers and benign blood disorders at more than 20 locations throughout New Jersey, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and the Washington, DC area. They strive to educate patients while providing innovative care.
What Is an Adenocarcinoma of the Colon?
Adenocarcinomas of the colon are the most common type of colon cancer. They form from glandular cells located along the large intestine. These cells produce mucus, a gel-like fluid that helps stool move smoothly along the length of the colon. Mucus also acts as a protective barrier to shield the intestinal lining against bacteria and irritants. An adenocarcinoma forms when genetic changes cause gland cells to reproduce without restraint, creating a constantly growing mass of abnormal tissue.
Stages of Adenocarcinoma of the Colon
Like other types of cancer, adenocarcinoma of the colon is staged based on the TNM system. This system combines the tumor’s size, its spread to nearby lymph nodes, and its degree of metastasis to categorize it into one of four stages:
- Stage I: The tumor has grown through the inner layers of the colon lining. It has not spread into lymph nodes or to distant parts of the body.
- Stage II: The tumor has grown into the outer layers of the colon wall, but not into nearby organs. It has not spread into lymph nodes or to distant parts of the body.
- Stage III: The cancer has spread into lymph nodes. It may have invaded nearby organs and tissues but has not spread to distant parts of the body.
- Stage IV: Cancer cells have metastasized through the bloodstream or lymphatic system to distant parts of the body, often the liver.
Patient outlooks for Stage I colon cancer are very good, with a five-year relative survival rate of 91%. Once the cancer begins to spread, however, the outlook becomes much worse. The five-year relative survival rate for Stage III cancer is 73%, and for Stage IV cancer is 13%. This drop is why early detection is so important. The sooner treatment begins, the better chance a patient has of a long survival.
Signs and Symptoms of Adenocarcinoma of the Colon
Because adenocarcinoma of the colon is the most common type of colon cancer, its symptoms are the most widely known. These symptoms typically develop slowly and are caused by the growing tumor obstructing the colon. Each person has a unique experience, but many may notice:
- Blood in the anus or stool
- Chronic diarrhea or constipation
- Thin or pencil-shaped stools
- Frequent bowel movements
- Abdominal cramps, bloating, or gas
- Anemia (iron deficiency)
- Unintentional weight loss
- Persistent fatigue
It is important to note that the great majority of women and men who experience one or more of the symptoms listed above will not have colon cancer. Many of these symptoms are more commonly caused by less serious conditions, such as bowel inflammation or food intolerances. Nonetheless, it is important to consult a physician about these symptoms, particularly if they are pronounced, arose suddenly, or have persisted for an extended period. Prompt evaluation will enable a doctor to address your concerns and to provide a treatment plan.
How Is Adenocarcinoma of the Colon Diagnosed?
Most cases of colon cancer, including adenocarcinoma of the colon, are initially detected by a routine colon cancer screening test. If screening detects something suspicious, then doctors will perform additional tests to confirm the cause. Diagnosing colon cancer typically involves a series of tests, which may include:
- CT colonography: This test uses an advanced X-ray machine to take images of the colon in “slices. “These can be reassembled to form a three-dimensional model of the colon, which the radiologist will examine for tumors and other abnormalities.
- Colonoscopy: This test uses a tiny camera mounted on a flexible tube, which is inserted into the anus. The camera is moved along the entire colon’s length while the physician uses its video feed to look for polyps or cancerous growths.
- Biopsy: This test is often performed simultaneously with a colonoscopy. The doctor uses a specialized cutting tool to remove a small amount of tissue from the tumor. The tissue is later tested in a medical laboratory to check for cancer cells.
Treatments for Adenocarcinoma of the Colon
After diagnosing adenocarcinoma of the colon, oncologists work with patients to determine the best treatment path. Treatment may feature one or more of the following approaches:
Surgery
Surgery is the standard treatment for low-stage adenocarcinomas that have not spread significantly. The goal of surgical treatment is to remove all of the tumor. Some of the colon and nearby lymph nodes may also be removed to ensure that no cancer cells are left behind.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy kills cancer cells by targeting them with high-energy rays. It is often recommended for patients whose age or overall health would make surgery dangerous. Radiation therapy may also be used to shrink tumors before surgery or clean up cells that remain afterward.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is a drug-based treatment that is highly toxic to cells that grow and divide quickly, including cancer cells. It works throughout the body, making it effective at controlling cancer that has spread beyond its origin. New chemotherapies are in development with fewer side effects.
Targeted Therapy
Targeted therapies are the latest breakthrough in cancer treatment. They use molecular medicine to attack cells with specific characteristics, helping them eliminate cancer without damaging healthy tissue. Targeted therapies are often effective when other treatments fail.
Find Colon Cancer Care Near You in NJ, CT, MA, and the Washington, D.C., Area
Patients with adenocarcinoma of the colon can find state-of-the-art treatment in New Jersey, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and the Washington, D.C., area at Regional Cancer Care Associates. RCCA specialists provide care to more than 30,000 new patients and 265,000 established patients each year. RCCA physicians offer patients innovative therapies, including immunotherapies and targeted therapy, cutting-edge diagnostics as well as access to approximately 300 clinical trials in community-based centers close to home.
Frequently Asked Questions About Colon Cancer
What causes colon cancer?
Colon cancer is caused by a DNA change in the cells of the colon. The reason for this change is not always clear, though it has been tied to risk factors including a person’s age, their diet and level of physical activity, a history of certain medical conditions, and genetic predispositions.
Can colon cancer be prevented?
Colon cancer cannot always be prevented, but patients can take active steps to reduce their risk of cancer. The best ways to reduce colon cancer risk are by eating a healthy diet, exercising frequently, avoiding heavy alcohol use, and quitting smoking.
Can colon cancer be asymptomatic?
Early stages of colon cancer often cause no symptoms at all. Symptoms only develop in later stages as the tumor grows larger and spreads farther. This can make colon cancer difficult to detect, making screening the most effective way of catching cancer early.
Are there newer treatments for colon cancer?
Yes, targeted therapy and immunotherapy are newer, innovative treatments that are especially effective for advanced or genetically specific cases.
What is the recurrence rate of colon cancer?
About 10%-30% of patients with colon cancer experience recurrence. However, the rate depends on the stage at diagnosis and the success of the treatment.
Receive the Highest Standard of Care
From the moment you have you first appointment at one of RCCA’s 25+ locations, you’ll experience quality care that only our highly trained oncologists can provide. We’ll take the time to help you understand your diagnosis and your options, so you and your doctor can devise the best treatment plan for your unique situation. You’ll also have access to clinical trials, putting you at the forefront of innovations in the field of colon cancer care.
To learn more about colon cancer treatment at RCCA or to schedule an appointment, reach out to us at 844-346-7222.
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