What causes intestinal cancer. Bowel cancer: signs, symptoms and stages. Symptoms in children

Colon cancer, oddly enough, is one of the most common ailments in the population of our planet. Out of 100,000 people, this disease is diagnosed in 9-10 people. The malignant formation itself can affect several parts of the intestine at once, which is why the disease proceeds in a rather severe form, especially in the last stages. Let's not forget about the diagnosis of intestinal cancer.

Causes

Unfortunately, there is no exact knowledge about the causes of cancerous tumors in the intestine, as well as about other oncology, and there are only ghostly assumptions, as well as statistics that may speak about the risk of a particular group of people. We will analyze the most common causes of bowel cancer:

• Food and food- when a person eats incorrectly and consumes more protein and fatty foods, then stool stagnation or partial blockage can be created in the intestines, which can create an unfavorable environment. The intestine itself can be mechanically damaged in this case. The risk of developing cancer with such factors increases.
• Genetic predisposition- Scientists still blame genes, so if there are patients with this type of cancer in a family, then there is a risk of the same disease in the offspring.
• Various diseases- such as presented adenoma, polyps, Crohn's disease and various ulcerative colitis. These diseases often become precancerous and later carry more serious consequences. If the treatment of these diseases is delayed or the patient is not treated for them, then a favorable environment for the occurrence of cancer is created in the intestine. Polyps that appear in the intestines are benign neoplasms, but later, if they are not removed, they can turn into a tumor. Many patients who have gluten intolerance are at risk of getting cancer from excessive consumption of this substance.

Forms of intestinal oncology by tissue type

• Squamous
• Adenocarcinomas
• Cricoid cell
• Colloidal

Clinical picture of intestinal oncology

Like any cancer, intestinal cancer must be diagnosed at the earliest stages, but often patients, due to the first symptoms, begin to be treated for the wrong disease. Because of which, they lose a lot of time, and later the intestinal oncology passes into a new stage, and it is already much more difficult to treat it.

That is why the most important thing is to understand the pathology as early as possible and identify cancer. The cancer itself can be located anywhere in the intestine, and, of course, the first and subsequent symptoms will strongly depend on the location.

First signs

The worst thing is that in the early stages the patient practically does not feel anything, which is why he loses a lot of time. There is a theory that the tumor itself, as well as malignant cells, secretes a small amount of painkillers into neighboring tissues. Therefore, the patient does not feel anything at the very beginning. But there are several syndromes that can indicate bowel cancer:

1. Enterocolitic syndrome- usually appears with cancer on the left side of the colon or cecum. In this case, fermentation of a food coma appears, the process of fecal masses is disrupted, constant bloating, long constipation, which can then abruptly be replaced by diarrhea.
2. Stenosis- here usually the cancer itself passes into the stage when the neoplasm clogs the intestine itself and interferes with the passage of feces. Then it becomes difficult for the patient to go to the toilet, constipation appears quite often. Bloating and severe abdominal pain and colic. The pains themselves in bowel cancer immediately disappear after the act of defecation.
3. Dyspeptic syndrome- usually accompanied by vomiting, constant nausea, excruciating and severe heartburn, as well as a constant bitter taste in the mouth. The syndrome is associated with the fact that with cancers, the digestive process is disturbed.
4. Pseudo-spastic- the sheets of the peritoneum become inflamed due to which there is a strong falling temperature, severe pain in the abdomen, intoxication occurs, due to which a person constantly feels bad and quickly gets tired.
5. Cystitis - the cancer itself already deeply covers the intestinal tissue and affects nearby organs: the bladder, the uterus with the ovaries in women. There are pains when urinating, the appearance of blood in the urine, as well as blood and mucous discharge from the vagina.
6. Other symptoms- Rapid fatigue and constant weakness throughout the body. Pale and very dry skin, drier and other mucous layers and membranes, constantly increasing body temperature, chills, headache and dizziness, indigestion. Feeling of constant fullness of the intestines, even after the act of defecation. Blood in the stool or even bleeding from the anus, intestinal carcinoma may occur.

NOTE! Of course, general symptoms do not give precise instructions to the doctor, which is why you need to take tests and resort to hardware examination of the sore spot.

Rectal cancer

As you probably know, the entire intestinal section is divided into rectum, colon and small intestine. It is on the localization of the cancer that the symptoms that will appear in the patient depend, and so it is easier for the doctor to determine exactly where the tumor has settled.

Bowel cancer symptoms:

• Since the rectum is located next to the bladder, ovaries and uterus, in this case, these sections may be inflammatory. There may be incontinence, pain when urinating.
• Constant false urge to go to the toilet and defecate the intestines, while in fact there is nothing. They can appear even after the act of defecation.
• Pus, mucus and even blood can be released from the anus.
• Due to damage to the nerves by a malignant tumor, there can be severe pain in the lower abdomen, especially before the act of defecation.
• If the cancerous tissue has deeply reached the muscle fibers, then if they are severely damaged, it becomes impossible to retain feces and gases. Continuous incontinence.
• If the tumor is large, then it retains the feces, which causes severe intoxication of the body, pain in the head, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.

Colon cancer

Bowel cancer manifestations:

• When a dull and aching pain begins under the ribs on the left or right side. The membranes of the large intestine are affected.
• Bloating, constant bubbling, loose stools.
• Intestinal obstruction, at 2-3 stages of cancer development, when severe pain, nausea and vomiting appear. Moreover, the vomit may contain feces.
• Ascites accumulates in the abdominal cavity - this is such a fluid, which, as a result, due to excess, can affect the work of all organs.

Small intestine

Small intestine cancer symptoms:

• Abundant blood in the stool, then the stool is dark in color.
• Taste and smell change, severe cramps in the intestines to pain, nausea and vomiting with heartburn.
• Loss of appetite and aversion to food.
• Constant pain that changes dislocation anywhere in the abdomen.

Usually the doctor prescribes a strict diet in this case, and if the symptoms persist, then the patient is already sent for a more detailed analysis and examination of the diagnosis.

Different signs in women and men

In women, due to the close location of the rectum and uterus, severe pain occurs when urinating, as well as a certain syndrome when cancer cells invade the uterus and when urinating, fecal matter from the intestine and blood can appear in the urine.

In men, malignant cells usually spread to the prostate gland, which makes it swell and it becomes more difficult to go to the toilet "in a small way", and severe pain can appear.

In children

In a child, the symptoms themselves manifest themselves in approximately the same way as in adults. At the very beginning, there are practically no symptoms. But later you can find a deterioration in appetite, rapid weight loss, fatigue and severe weakness.

After the cancer passes into a new stage, it appears: loose stools with blood, nausea and vomiting, belching, and abdominal pain. Unfortunately, at the same time, many doctors mistakenly treat the child not for cancer, but for inflammation, and for a while the child becomes better, but the disease does not go away, but only progresses.

Bowel cancer stages

Intestinal oncology has 5 stages. Unfortunately, stages 2 and 3 are observed without any severe symptoms. When the end of the 3rd and the beginning of the 4th stage comes, the patient develops severe abdominal pain. Moreover, the pain is so strong that the patient usually goes to the doctor.

Unfortunately, by the third stage, tumor cells metastasize, which makes it much more difficult for doctors to treat the neoplasm itself.

Zero stage

This usually happens after precancerous diseases, when cells accumulate in the intestine that can divide quickly, but are not yet a tumor. In the process, these cells can, due to various favorable factors, become cancerous and turn into the first stage.

NOTE! Not every stage zero turns into cancer, it all depends on the patient himself: diet, alcohol consumption, smoking, as well as environmental and other factors. Since at this stage there are no differences from other diseases in symptoms, in 30% of cases these cells develop into cancer.

First stage

Cancer cells are just beginning to grow in the walls of the intestine, while metastases have not yet appeared and cancerous tissues have not spread to neighboring organs. Usually there is no symptom at this stage, but there may be mild distress or diarrhea.

Second stage

The tumor itself grows abundantly and expands to the entire depth of the intestine, right down to the muscle tissue. Small but infrequent pains may appear. Metastasis has not yet begun.

Third stage

Regional lesions appear when a malignant tumor grows so much that it even generates nearby tissues, lymph nodes, etc.

Fourth stage

Metastases cover nearby organs. The tumor can completely block the intestinal passage, which is why intoxication begins, both from the vital activity of the cancerous tumor itself, and from stale feces. As a result of severe intoxication, work can be severely disrupted and other organs are affected.

Metastases

Basically, intestinal cancer metastases affect:

• Liver
• Ovaries
• Adrenal glands
• Prostate gland
• Abdominal space
• Bladder
• Pelvic organs
• Pancreas
• Lungs
• Stomach

If the oncology itself is at the last stage, and there is abundant liver damage, then the prognosis for the patient is not reassuring, since the survival rate drops to 5%. The maximum life span is 6-9 months.

Here it is clear the matter, it all depends on the size of the cancerous tumor, as well as on the area of ​​liver damage. However, with proper treatment, the patient has a chance to live for 2-3 years.

Diagnostics

The very first and, probably, the simplest method is the delivery of feces for analysis. Even a minimal blood content in it can further diagnose bowel cancer. It is clear that the diagnosis itself takes place in a complex in order to identify the exact focus of the disease, as well as the approximate stage and size of the tumor.

NOTE! Older people should have a full bowel exam once a year.

Analyzes

• CA 242
• Ca 72-4
• Tu M2-PK

NOTE! Remember that tumor markers do not show the presence of a malignant tumor by 100%, so it is worth doing the tests several times at intervals of 10 days, and if the result is positive, resort to more accurate diagnostic methods.

Colonoscopy or retromanoscopy

This procedure allows the doctor to see the condition of the tissues and the organ itself - the intestine, and, if necessary, even take a sample for analysis. Later, the sample itself undergoes a biopsy for a more accurate diagnosis.

For patients who are at risk, it is necessary to undergo a routine examination once a year, of course, the procedure is not very pleasant, but this will help to identify the tumor at an early stage and defeat it.

Irrigoscopy

Very often, patients refuse the previous method because of the psychological barrier. That is why intestinal irrigoscopy is very often used, when a special solution is introduced into it with the help of an enema, which stains the intestinal walls well on x-rays and allows you to see various neoplasms even in the early stages and stages before metastases.

MRI, PET-CT, CT

With the help of research data, it is possible not only to determine the location of the tumor, but also the size, stage, and even the approximate growth rate. There is even an opportunity to see the degree of germination of cancer cells into the intestinal wall and already understand how to treat a patient.

Treatment

NOTE! Remember that treating bowel cancer with alternative methods will in no way cure you of a cancerous tumor. Usually, the medicinal herbs that grandmothers usually recommend just hide some of the symptoms and make the disease less unpleasant. But the growth of cancer cells is not slowed down. So, in any case, you will have to see a doctor.

The most important thing in the treatment of any cancer is timely diagnosis and correct subsequent treatment. Of course, there are also cases of recovery in the later stages, even after metastases, but unfortunately the percentage of survivors drops dramatically.

Surgery

This is usually the best way at stage 1 or 2, when the metastases have not yet begun. Then a piece of intestine is simply removed, and the healthy ends are spliced ​​and a person can safely go to the toilet.

If there are more malignant tumors, then in this case most of the intestine is usually cut out, and the healthy end is brought out and a colostomy is applied. In this case, the patient feels severe discomfort and possible pain.

Chemotherapy and radiation

Usually, this therapy occurs in the last stages, when surgical intervention is impossible. Then, using these techniques, it is possible to reduce the rate of tumor growth and prevent metastasis. True, the side effects of the technique are very strong and unpleasant: up to hair loss throughout the body.

Life expectancy of patients

How long do bowel cancer patients live?

• The patient can survive with a 90 to 95% probability in the first stage.
• In the second stage of deep organ damage - 57-83%. It is much easier to cure cancer at this stage than at subsequent stages, although the organ is badly damaged.

- This is a malignant transformation of the glandular epithelium, mainly of the colon or rectum. In the first stages, sluggish symptoms are characteristic, distracting from the primary pathology and resembling an upset of the gastrointestinal tract. The leading radical treatment method is surgical excision of the affected tissue.

Epidemiology

In official medicine, bowel cancer is referred to as "colorectal cancer". This is a collective name, consisting of two roots: "columns" and "rectum". It is in the corresponding parts of the intestine that the maximum number of primary malignant ones is detected.

Colon (Latin colon) is the colon with four consecutive sections:

ascending, which is located vertically on the right side of the human body;

descending - vertically on the left side;

transverse - connects the ascending and descending sections, located in the upper abdominal cavity, just below the stomach and liver;

sigmoid - forms a kind of short bend in the form of a letter (Σ), is located below on the left side and connects the descending and rectum.

Rectum (Latin rectum) is the rectum (located in the small pelvis).

In the cecum and appendix (third section of the large intestine) and the small section (duodenum, jejunum, ileum), malignant neoplasms are much less common. The average incidence of cancer outside the colon is 0.4-1.0% of all cases of intestinal oncology.

Important epidemiological features of bowel cancer:

occupies a leading position in the structure of oncological diseases, inferior to: in men - stomach cancer and lung cancer, in women - breast cancer;

the most common morphological form of this cancer is adenocarcinoma (malignant transformation of benign intestinal polyps, consisting of glandular tissue);

the probability of developing adenocarcinoma in the intestine is 98-99%, the incidence of sarcoma and other types of tumors does not exceed 1-2%;

the most frequent localization of the tumor: in the rectum (about 50%), in the sigmoid colon (up to 40%), in the descending and ascending colon (about 7%), in the transverse intestine (about 3%);

in women more often (up to 55%) they are diagnosed with cancer of the colon areas, in men (up to 60%) - of the rectum;

the disease occurs at any age, a sharp rise in incidence is noted after 40 years, the peak falls on the period from 60 to 75 years.

In Russia, about 40 thousand cases of colorectal cancer are diagnosed annually with a mortality rate of up to 30 thousand. High mortality is associated with the state of health of the elderly, almost always with comorbidities.

The paradox is that colorectal cancer does not belong to pathologies with difficult-to-detect symptoms. This disease can be detected by modern instrumental and laboratory methods even at the earliest stages, however, it is distinguished by a significant number of diagnostic errors associated with a variety of clinical manifestations of the disease.

In this regard, it is very important:

qualifications and oncological alertness of doctors who carry out the initial appointment at the district clinic;

attentiveness of patients (especially older and elderly) suffering from disorders of the gastrointestinal tract and included in the risk groups for colorectal cancer.

Diagnosis of any disease, and especially in the early stages, is always a dialogue between the doctor and the patient. Very often, information from a patient who correctly describes the symptoms of the disease is crucial.

However, the patient's vigilance is not the main link in the timely diagnosis of cancer for the following reasons:

A doctor conducting an appointment at a polyclinic, in the flow of patients, may not pay attention to signs of oncology. Its symptoms are varied, possibly erased, especially since increased fatigue, weight loss, blood in the stool, discomfort or pain in the abdomen, heart palpitations (the main signs of the first stages) resemble many diseases, and are effectively, albeit temporarily, eliminated with medications.

It is sometimes psychologically difficult for a local therapist to replace a previously made diagnosis associated with a banal chronic digestive disorder with a frightening one - cancer, and promptly refer the patient to a narrow specialist for a highly sensitive examination;

Only the patient knows about his own predisposing risk factors for oncology in the form of similar diseases in blood relatives, the peculiarities of his personal lifestyle, the nature of work, nutrition, the presence of some individual delicate symptoms.

The knowledge gained in the framework of this educational article will help an ordinary person understand the causes of the disease in an amount sufficient to draw the attention of the clinic doctor to this problem during the initial appointment.

Cancer is not always a sentence! This is a situation where it is better to err in the assumption of a formidable diagnosis than to erroneously make a banal diagnosis. For the timely detection of pathology, a prepared patient is needed who does not fall into only suspicion of oncology in his body.

Bowel cancer symptoms

Cancer diagnosis based on clinical symptoms alone is futile due to the many manifestations of the disease. The following description of the symptoms is given to show the variety of manifestations of pathology, and to confirm the importance of competent medical diagnosis with modern methods.

Colorectal cancer has no characteristic (pathognomonic) symptoms. There are several groups of bowel cancer symptoms that characterize various pathological processes inside the patient's body.

Toxic-anemic symptoms

The initial stages of intestinal cancer are accompanied by a violation of the integrity of the mucous membranes of the intestinal walls.

As a result, the gate of infection opens, the contents of the intestine enter the bloodstream, causing intoxication, which manifests itself:

increased fatigue, weakness, nausea, other signs of intoxication;

increased body temperature, joint pain (a consequence of toxicosis);

loss of blood from small vessels of the intestinal wall, anemia, pallor of the mucous membranes, a decrease in hemoglobin levels, thickening of blood, a change in its other parameters and, as a consequence, a change in the rhythm of the heart and respiration.

The disease can be confused with a variety of intoxications caused, for example, by inflammation of the joints or upper respiratory tract.

This inflammation is formed mainly with extensive damage to the mucous membranes, when toxins begin to enter the blood from the surface of the damaged membranes, while in addition to intoxication, intestinal function is disturbed.

Pathology manifests itself:

increased gas production as a result of putrefaction of intestinal contents, bloating and rumbling;

involvement in the pathogenesis of intestinal sphincters, which regulate peristalsis. The process is accompanied by periodic abdominal pain (left or right), especially after eating;

mucus visible as blood and pus in the stool.

In the absence of cancer alertness, the doctor may confuse these symptoms with dysentery, inflammatory processes in the large intestine.

Dyspeptic bowel disorder: symptoms

This disorder is found when a large number of pain receptors are involved in the pathogenesis and irritation as a result of ulceration of the walls of the mucous membranes, as well as at the initial stages of metastasis to the liver.

Symptoms appear as:

severe abdominal pain;

Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract (the probability of malignancy is up to 90%):

• ulcerative colitis - diarrhea, frequency of bowel movements up to 20 times a day, blood or pus in the stool caused by ulcers on the intestinal walls, pain in the lower abdomen, swelling of intestinal loops (protrusion of the lower abdomen);

  Crohn's disease or nodular inflammation of the mucous membranes of any part of the gastrointestinal tract (from the mouth to the rectum) - increased fatigue, weight loss, high fever, severe pain that mimics appendicitis, as well as vomiting.

Diseases associated with metabolic disorders (the probability of malignancy is up to 10%):

• diabetes mellitus of the second type (not dependent on insulin) - increased thirst, large volume of urine with a normal frequency of urination, dry skin, weakness, prolonged healing of skin and muscle damage.

III. group of reasons

Diseases that are not antecedent to cancer, but often overlap with this disease and confuse the clinical picture.

This is true if the doctor supervises the patient for a long time, for example, about:

diverticula (pockets in the walls of the intestines)

chronic intestinal obstruction;

anal fissures or fistulas;

other diseases of the lower gastrointestinal tract.

Each disease has its own typical clinical picture with the same or common symptom for all the listed diseases - difficult, painful defecation.

The division of the pathogenesis of cancer into different stages is accepted throughout the world. There are various approaches to this issue, but the entire medical community has recognized the feasibility of division. This classification method greatly simplifies the description of carcinogenesis and standardizes its understanding. In our country, it is generally accepted to distinguish four main stages of cancer and several possible variants within each stage.

For the diagnosis of bowel cancer, the following classifications have been proposed, including those used abroad:

TNM (latin equivalents of the first letters denoting "tumor", "lymph node", "metastasis") is an international classification widely used by Russian doctors. Only 4 stages of cancer, one stage of precancer. The abbreviation of the classification is based on its principle.

There are other classifications as well. We will focus on TNM classification, as the most common in our country, and describe the characteristic features of each stage.

When there is no reason to consider the established changes indicating signs of cancer, this condition has a symbol - (T x). If there are signs indicating precancerous symptoms, then the designation (T is) is used. To describe the involvement of regional lymph nodes in carcinogenesis, the designation N is used. If, during the examination of the patient, convincing evidence of the involvement of the nodes is not obtained, then the results are denoted by letters (N x), and if it is precisely established that the nodes are not damaged, then this is denoted (N 0). The letter M (metastasis) is not used in the description of precancer.

Colon cancer stage 1

In the medical history, examination protocols and other official medical documents, it is indicated by a combination of letters and numbers (T 1 N 0 M 0). This is the initial stage, clinically it is manifested by general symptoms of intoxication. On instrumental examination, it is visualized as a small, mobile, dense formation or ulcer (T 1). Changes are found in the mucous membrane or submucosa. Lymph nodes are not affected (N 0). There are no metastases (M 0).

Colon cancer stage 2

There are two possible options for describing this stage in medical documents with the results of instrumental studies: (T 2 N 1 M 0) or (T 3 N 0 M 0). These options differ in the size of the tumor. Namely - the size of the tumor is described from one third to half the diameter of the intestine (T 2 and T 3). In one variant, there are signs of damage to the nearest lymph nodes (N 1), and in the second, there are no lesions (N 0). Distant metastases are always absent (M 0).

Colon cancer stage 3

This form of colorectal cancer is distinguished by a variety of morphological and cytological forms of carcinogenesis.

There are seven possible descriptions, including lighter manifestations, indicated by:

(T 4 N 0 M 0) - the tumor occupies more than 50% of the intestinal diameter, the lymph nodes are not affected, there are no metastases;

(T 1 N 1 M 0) - a small mobile tumor, the nearest lymph nodes are affected, without distant metastases in the liver;

(T 2 N 1 M 0) - a tumor up to 30% of the diameter, the nearest lymph nodes are affected, there are no metastases;

(T 3 N 0 M 0) - tumor up to 50% of the intestinal diameter, no lesions of the lymph nodes, no metastases.

The relatively more severe forms of the third stage are indicated by:

(T 4 N 1 M 0) - a massive tumor encircling the intestine, adhesions are formed with neighboring organs and tissues, the next 3-4 lymph nodes are affected, there are no distant metastases;

(T 1-4 N 2 M 0) - the size of the tumor does not matter, more than four intestinal lymph nodes (N 2) are affected, there are no metastases.

(T 1-4 N 3 M 0) - the size of the tumor does not matter, the lymph nodes along the large blood vessels (N 3) are affected, that is, there is a massive spread of cancer cells throughout the body, there are no distant metastases yet.

Colon cancer stage 4

This is the last, most dangerous stage of the disease, characterized by distant metastases in the body. Medical documents can be designated (T 1-4, N 1-3 M 1). The size of the tumor and the lesion of regional lymph nodes are not of fundamental importance. However, there are always distant metastases, usually in the liver (M 1).

Intestinal metastases

A feature of colorectal cancer is distant metastases to the liver, much less often they are found in the lungs, brain, genitals and omentum. The germination of malignant cells into vital organs greatly reduces the likelihood of successful treatment of patients.

Intestinal metastases in adenocarcinoma are found in 50% of cases, in colloid cancer in 70%, and in anaplastic types of cancer about 82%. When comparing the frequency, squamous cell cancers metastasize more often, but they can be found much less frequently than cancers of the glandular forms.

There is no early cancer prediction system in Russia. The reason is the chronic lack of funding for useful activities. Therefore, there are no highly sensitive methods for detecting cancer available for mass use.

Research widely used in our clinics does not give many false results, and DNA diagnostics is still limitedly available for mass research.

Modern forecasting mainly depends on the literacy and oncology vigilance of the doctor, who knows how to find the connection between diseases of the gastrointestinal tract and the precursors of cancer. The prognosis is based on the subjective feelings of the doctor and the results of a visual examination of the patient, therefore, up to 20% of patients in Russia have a primary diagnosis - bowel cancer with distant metastases.

Ways to improve objective forecasting methods are based on the introduction of highly effective instrumental and laboratory techniques into mass medical practice.

In the presence of an already formed tumor, the most promising methods for objectively predicting the rate of development of metastases is the determination of specific protein markers, including the Oncotype Dx colon test and others.

How long do you live with bowel cancer?

The question contains a fatal implication of the deadly danger of cancer. But let's be optimistic, because in the early, and sometimes in the later stages of the disease, doctors achieve amazing success in the radical treatment of this form of cancer.

The answer to the question posed about life expectancy can be divided into two parts:

the first concerns the quality and duration of life after diagnosis;

the second is the frequency of examinations in order to identify oncology at the earliest possible stages.

Information about the five-year survival rate of patients with bowel cancer, often used in scientific research to show the trends and patterns of the disease, in the context of a popular article is incorrect, because the body of each individual person has a different margin of safety, depending on:

age;

concomitant pathologies;

bad habits;

Of the above, age alone cannot be adjusted. Correct treatment of concomitant pathologies, rejection of bad habits, selection of a diet, elimination of stress, significantly increase the likelihood of not getting sick, and the patient's chances of recovery and significant prolongation of life with the help of surgeons and doctors of other specialties increase.

A high-quality life is possible even with significant excision (resection) of a part of the intestine and the imposition of a colostomy (holes for removing feces outside, bypassing the anus). Having a colostomy with normal care is not a significant factor in reducing quality of life.

On the other hand, the earlier the cancer is diagnosed, the better the chances of successful treatment. Following this logic, it can be assumed that extremely frequent examination gives chances for early detection of the disease and prolongation of life. Fortunately, this is not entirely true.

Early confirmation of the diagnosis is possible with examinations at intervals of one year. Indeed, from the first mutations to the onset of clinical stages, on average, it takes two to three years.

For a significant increase in the duration and quality of life, screening studies should be carried out annually after the age of forty.

When a disease is detected in its late stages, proper care of the patient and maintaining a good hygienic condition of the colostomy play an important role in prolonging life.

If bowel cancer was detected at stage 1, and the tumor has not spread anywhere (which is extremely rare, with a happy coincidence), then the chance of success reaches 99%.

If the cancer is in stage 2, when the tumor begins to grow on the intestinal walls, then the chance of a cure is 85%.

At 3 stages, when the tumor affects the nearest lymph nodes, the chance of a cure drops to 65%.

In the later stages of bowel cancer, if distant lymph nodes are affected, the chance of a cure is about 35%.

How long a person will live after cure depends on the neglect of the disease, as well as on other factors listed above.

The choice of the diagnostic scheme is determined by the doctor. The minimum includes screening studies, in the first place - which is a very simple and widely available method used in the most primitive laboratories.

Patients at risk should donate feces once a year to exclude latent bleeding, this method allows you to determine a tumor or polyp with a diameter of 2 cm;

With a positive occult blood test, fibrosigmoscopy is prescribed, or rectomanoscopy with video fixation or contrast examination of the colon.

A real breakthrough in the diagnosis of bowel cancer occurred after the widespread introduction into medical practice of methods of radiation diagnostics, for example, contrast radiography or more modern methods:

computed tomography and its modifications (CT, MSCT);

ultrasound diagnostics through the abdominal wall and with the help of sensors inserted into the intestine (ultrasound, TRUS, others);

magnetic resonance imaging and its modifications (MRI)

positron emission tomography (PET-CT).

A promising method is the laboratory determination of DNA markers of intestinal cancer. After all, this form of the disease is one of the few that can be determined long before the onset of the clinical stage, and, thereby, save life without painful medical procedures.

Colon cancer treatment

Modern methods of treating colorectal cancer are based on radical surgical removal of the tumor, surrounding tissues and metastases. Radiation and chemotherapy are used as adjuncts. In the medical literature, there is information about a significant prolongation of the life of patients operated on at 3-4 stages of intestinal cancer. Some sources indicate a 3-year survival rate of 50%, and a 5-year survival rate of 30% of surgical patients. The use of combined methods gives hope for better patient survival outcomes.

Colon cancer chemotherapy

The main deterrent to the widespread use of chemotherapy in this form of cancer is the resistance of the main forms of intestinal tumors to cytostatic drugs.

Chemotherapy is used systemically, before or after surgery. In some cases, local administration to the blood vessels feeding the metastases is indicated. The main drug used for chemotherapy is 5-fluorouracil. In addition to it, other cytostatics are used - capecitabine, oxaliplastin, irinotecan and others. To enhance their action, immunocorrectors are prescribed (interferogens, stimulants of humoral and cellular immunity).

Surgery to remove a tumor in the intestine

It is generally accepted that it is the only definitive treatment for bowel cancer. There are various techniques, including:

traditional methods of resection of the affected segment of the intestine and surrounding vessels;

operations through miniature abdominal incisions;

removal of a tumor with a packet of lymph nodes and metastases using a high-frequency knife.

The method and method of surgery is chosen by the attending physician based on the recommendations of the council. It has been proven that the quality of the operation and the likelihood of tumor re-development directly depend on the training of a team of surgeons and the equipment of a specialized clinic.

Oncological diseases are characterized by insidiousness and unpredictability. Prevention should be considered for people who have a hereditary predisposition to cancer, or have been diagnosed with diseases that can transform into cancer, as well as all people over the age of 40.

Increased physical activity;

Fortification of the diet with foods containing fiber;

Quitting bad habits (smoking, drinking alcohol).

Regular aspirin reduces the chances of developing some forms of bowel cancer. It is imperative to take it after meals. Usually, this inexpensive drug is prescribed for hypertension in order to reduce the viscosity of the blood. There is strong scientific evidence for the suppression of some forms of colorectal cancer with daily low-dose aspirin intake.

Attention! Aspirin should not be taken in high dosages, since there is a high likelihood of erosions, ulcers, gastroduodenitis and gastric bleeding.

Even simple annual screening tests for occult blood in the stool reduce the likelihood of developing cancer by 18-20%.

Bowel cancer Is a malignant disease that affects the lower digestive tract. Neoplasms develop from the epithelium of the mucous membrane. They are a neoplasia in which normal cells of the intestinal wall are replaced by atypical ones. Most often, the disease occurs in elderly people (after 55 years). In men, this ailment is recorded less often than in women.

Anatomically, the entire intestine is divided into 2 sections: thin and thick.

• The small intestine is responsible for the absorption of nutrients, the secretion of digestive enzymes, and the propelling of the chyme (food bolus).
• The large intestine is responsible for the absorption of water, glucose, amino acids, the formation and excretion of feces.

Due to chronic constipation, which is accompanied by irritation of the intestinal wall with toxic metabolic products (indole, skatole) and reduced peristalsis, the large intestine is most susceptible to malignant neoplasms.

The tumor can affect any part of the large intestine:, or the rectum. The malignant process of the large intestine is called colorectal cancer(about 15% of cases among all cancers of the lower digestive system). Small bowel carcinoma occurs in only 1% of patients.

Nutrition. Some ingredients in the diet provoke the development of intestinal neoplasia, that is, they are carcinogenic. Fried, smoked, pickled, spicy, fatty and difficult to digest foods come out on top. This also includes ingredients containing genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and subject to the refining process (sugar, vegetable oil, bleached flour, confectionery, wheat bread, etc.).

The second place is occupied by products contaminated with various chemical additives (preservatives, dyes, emulsifiers, flavorings and flavor enhancers), "fast food" (chips, croutons, pizza, french fries, popcorn, hamburgers and others) and carbonated drinks ("coca- cola "," Pepsi ", lemonade, beer, kvass and others).

In third place is the unhealthy diet. It is associated with an abundance of animal products in food and a deficiency of plant fibers (vegetables, fruits, herbs, whole grain cereals, etc.). As a result of the digestion of protein foods (meat), a significant amount of harmful compounds is released. With fecal stagnation, the mucous membrane is irritated by the products of putrefaction, ulceration appears. Normal epithelial cells begin to change their differentiation and become malignant.

Inflammatory process in the lower parts of the digestive tract. and (Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis), accompanied by erosive and ulcerative defects of the mucous membrane or damage to the intestinal wall by causative agents of dangerous infections (salmonellosis, dysentery, amebiasis and others) provoke the development of malignant neoplasms. Gluten intolerance (congenital celiac disease) is also a harbinger of cancer.

Heredity. The presence of malignant diseases of any organs in relatives is genetically determined. Such patients are assigned to the risk group for oncology. According to the medical literature, only 3-5% of patients have intestinal cancer genetically determined. The most common are familial colon adenomatosis and Lynch syndrome. In other patients, the development of cancer is associated with other factors.

The presence of benign tumors. Benign tumors in the lumen of the colon can mutate and become cancerous. the lower parts of the digestive system, in the absence of timely treatment, in 100% of cases turn into malignant neoplasms (adenocarcinoma, teratoma, lymphosarcoma, and others). Intestinal adenomatosis is also a harbinger of neoplasia.

Exposure to the body of toxic chemical compounds. Alcohol abuse, smoking, drug addiction and work in hazardous industries become provocateurs of malfunctioning of organs and systems. This can lead to cell mutation and malignant process.

Endocrine pathology. There is a link between bowel cancer and obesity and diabetes mellitus.

Physical inactivity. Insufficient physical activity is a risk factor for the development of constipation. Disruption of the digestive tract leads to stagnation of feces, provokes an exacerbation of chronic pathology and increases the risk of developing a cancerous tumor.

Cancer stages

Bowel cancer symptoms

Primary manifestations in the early stages (I, II)

A small malignant tumor does not block the intestinal lumen. There are no metastases. Consequently, the symptomatology at the initial stages of tumor development is nonspecific. Clinical manifestations can be associated with any inflammatory bowel disease or digestive disorder. Therefore, it is important not to waste time and conduct early diagnosis. Colon cancer at stages I-II responds well to treatment.

Dyspeptic syndrome. It is associated with indigestion, characterized by the following symptoms:

Enterocolitic syndrome. It is characterized by intestinal dysbiosis by type. It is accompanied by a violation of the process of the formation of feces and their excretion from the body. The following symptoms are present:

• alternation of constipation ("sheep" feces) with diarrhea (frothy stools with an unpleasant odor of fermentation);
• bloating and rumbling in the abdomen as a result of increased gas production;
• a feeling of heaviness and fullness in the abdominal cavity even after the act of defecation;
• the appearance in the stool of mucus, streaks of blood or pus.

Asthenic syndrome. It is accompanied by weakness, drowsiness, and increased fatigue.

Pain syndrome. In the initial stages, bowel cancer is mild. Periodic aching pains in the abdomen or before the act of defecation are possible.

Anemic syndrome. It is characterized by pallor of the skin and mucous membranes of the oral cavity; periodic dizziness.

Further development of symptoms in the later stages (III, IV)

The cancerous tumor reaches an impressive size and blocks the intestinal lumen, causing partial or complete obstruction. Metastases appear. Due to the disintegration of a malignant neoplasm, severe intoxication develops, which sharply worsens the patient's condition. Aversion to food appears, followed by depletion of the body (cachexia).

Obstructive syndrome. It arises due to the growing cancerous tumor. The blockage can be partial or complete. The process of excretion of feces is disrupted. Stenosis of the end part of the large intestine (sigmoid or rectum) is accompanied by an attack of cramping pain and severe bleeding (red blood) from the anus. Changes in the nature of the stool: "ribbon-like" with streaks of blood. When bleeding from the upper large intestine and small intestine appears.

As a result of complete obturation, signs of acute intestinal obstruction develop:

Intoxication syndrome. Associated with stagnation of feces and intestinal obstruction as a result of the growth of a cancerous tumor. Development due to irritation of the peritoneum with tumor decay products and feces is possible. Also, the body is poisoned with atypical cells and growing foci of metastases. The following symptoms are characteristic:

• severe weakness (malaise);
• a sharp decrease in appetite;
• an increase in body temperature to subfebrile numbers (37-38.5 ° C);
• dryness and discoloration of the skin (gray-bluish tint);
• headache;
• weight loss with extreme exhaustion.

Pain syndrome. When the intestinal lumen is blocked by a malignant neoplasm, an obstruction develops with sharp cramps in the abdomen or perineum. The pain is severe, unbearable.

Other symptoms. When adjacent organs (bladder, uterus with appendages) may be affected. Pain during urination, incontinence are determined, in the analysis of urine - hematuria (blood). In women, menstruation is disturbed, mucous-bloody discharge from the vagina appears. Due to the growing tumor and compression of the perineum, itching may occur in the anus, encopresis - the inability to hold feces and gases.

Diagnostics

It is built on the basis of complaints and an objective examination of the patient. Then additional diagnostic methods (laboratory, instrumental) of intestinal cancer are connected.

Inspection

When examining a patient, the doctor performs the following manipulations:

Laboratory methods

Clinical blood test assigned to all patients who have complained of abdominal pain. This study is not very informative, as it indicates only the process of inflammation in the body and the presence of anemia. Such signs can be observed with other diseases. A blood test for bowel cancer reveals:

• a decrease in the number of red blood cells and hemoglobin (anemia in which iron supplements are ineffective);
• leukocytosis or leukopenia (increase or decrease in the number of leukocytes);
• decrease in platelets;
• a significant rise in ESR (more than 30 mm / h in the absence of complaints - a serious symptom for oncological alertness);
• shift of the leukocyte formula to the left (the appearance of young and degenerative forms of neutrophils).

Diagnose the presence of bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract. A positive Gregersen test is not an accurate sign of cancer.

Blood chemistry can be an indirect marker of a cancerous process in the body:

• hypo- or hyperproteinemia (decrease or increase in the level of total protein);
• increased urea and creatinine (increased protein breakdown in the presence of a tumor);
• an increase in alkaline phosphatase (the presence of metastases in the liver, bones);
• a sharp increase in liver enzymes (AST, ALT) - the breakdown of hepatocytes due to an inflammatory or malignant process;
• significant reduction in cholesterol levels (liver metastases);
• hyperkalemia with normal sodium levels (cancer intoxication with cachexia).

Coagulogram - increased blood clotting and the formation of microthrombi (when atypical cells enter the vascular bed). It is a poorly informative study.

Blood test for tumor markers of intestinal cancer (CEA, CA 19-9) not used in primary diagnostics. It is evaluated in combination with other more accurate methods. Used to track cancer recurrence and tumor growth.

Instrumental methods

Belonged to the most accurate in detecting bowel cancer.

- X-ray research method using a contrast agent. It is injected into the rectum through an enema. Then a radiopaque image is taken. It is examined for the presence of a tumor and signs of intestinal obstruction (). This method is quite informative and rarely causes complications. The irrigoscopy procedure is not traumatic and painless. It is characterized by a small radiation dose on the patient, in contrast to computed tomography.

- examination of the rectum and sigmoid colon using a metal tube at the end of which there is optical equipment (lenses) with lighting and an air injection system. The sigmoidoscope is inserted through the anus to a depth of 30 cm. The mucous membrane of the intestinal wall is examined, suspicious areas are taken for biopsy using forceps. Sigmoidoscopy is an effective method for diagnosing cancer of the rectum and sigmoid colon. Differs in low pain and lack of pronounced discomfort.

- endoscopic examination of the intestine to a depth of 100 cm. Special equipment (probe) equipped with a camera and a flashlight is introduced through the anus and gradually moves along the entire lower part of the digestive tract. The mucous membrane of the colon walls is examined. Suspicious areas of tissue are pinched off for further. Polyps are removed.

Colonoscopy allows you to detect the disease in the early stages of development (during routine examinations), when there are no symptoms. Helps to accurately diagnose a tumor: its location, size, stage of development and the presence of metastases. The disadvantage of this procedure is its painfulness and the need to use anesthesia.

- the most reliable method for detecting cancer. A section of the intestinal wall (biopsy) obtained by instrumental diagnostics is placed in a specialized solution and delivered to the laboratory. Slices are made from it, which are placed on glass slides and stained. Then microscopy is performed. The cells are examined, after which the histologist makes a conclusion about the presence or absence of a malignant neoplasm in the intestine. Depending on the urgency of the study, the result will be ready no earlier than 4-14 days.

- endoscopic examination to detect a duodenal tumor. The procedure is similar to a colonoscopy, except that a tube is inserted through the oropharynx into the stomach. With FGDS, the state of the intestinal mucosa is assessed, tissue is pinched off for histological examination. The procedure is accompanied by severe discomfort due to nausea and vomiting.

It is used for diverticulosis of the large intestine, hernias and bleeding, when colonoscopy is contraindicated. MRI helps diagnose a neoplasm, but does not allow determining its type. Biopsy required.

And MRI is performed to detect metastases in neighboring and distant organs.

Treatment

Surgical treatment is still the most effective method of fighting bowel cancer.

Chemotherapy is not effective. It is used only to prevent tumor growth and the spread of metastases. It can be prescribed before and after surgery.

Radiation therapy is used to eliminate the remaining atypical cells after radical surgery. And also for the prevention of recurrence of the malignant process and the spread of metastases.

Treatment should be comprehensive, that is, a combination of various methods.

Surgical therapy

In the early stages of bowel cancer (I, II), surgical intervention is quite effective (in 90% of cases). In case of tumor metastasis, in addition to radical treatment, chemotherapy and radiotherapy are used.

The main methods of bowel cancer surgery:

• Resection (removal) of a part of the intestine for small tumors (stage I or II)

The operation is performed under general anesthesia by laparoscopy. Small incisions (0.5 to 1.5 cm) are made with a scalpel in the anterior abdominal wall. Through them, surgical instruments and an endoscope are inserted into the abdominal cavity, at the end of which there is a video camera and a source of illumination. The image is displayed on the monitor screen. The surgeon separates the affected part of the intestine and performs a resection. The tumor is completely eliminated without contact with it (prevention of relapse). Then an anastomosis (connection) is formed. The resulting stumps of two intestinal tubes are stitched with a surgical stapler.

This method is less traumatic and has a low risk of infectious complications. Patients recover within a week.

• Resection of the affected intestine

It is used for large tumors (III, IV). The operation is performed by laparotomy. A longitudinal incision is made on the anterior abdominal wall and fixed with clamps. The surgical site is examined to determine the resection area. The affected intestine is isolated and fixed with clamps. Excision is performed within healthy tissues (to prevent contact with the tumor and reduce the risk of recurrence).

Total resection is carried out for malignant tumors of impressive size. In this case, the small or large intestine is completely removed, then anastomosis is applied. The remaining stumps can be of different diameters, difficulties arise in the restoration of the organ.

Complications are possible: infection and bleeding (during and after surgery), adhesions at the anastomosis, pain due to limited peristalsis, hernia (bowel protrusion), indigestion (flatulence, constipation or diarrhea) and impaired bowel and bladder emptying ( encopresis and enuresis).

• Bowel resection with colostomy removal

An artificial hole for excretion of feces is formed above the site of organ damage. A colostomy can be temporary (to relieve the intestines after surgery and effectively recover). The stitches heal faster (within one month). Then the colostomy is eliminated, and the patient's physiological bowel movement is restored. In rare cases, an artificial hole will last for the rest of your life. With a permanent colostomy, patients need to learn how to use special colostomy bags. The anal opening is sutured.

Complications of this method of surgery: the formation of an abscess due to infection of the abdominal wall with feces, necrosis of the excreted intestine, narrowing of the outlet (with insufficient fixation), prolapse of intestinal loops into the wound with weak mobilization, prolapse of the intestine due to active peristalsis and increased intra-abdominal pressure.

Chemotherapy

Toxic drugs are prescribed to reduce tumor growth and the risk of metastasis. Used before and after surgery, as well as palliative care for cancer patients with inoperable tumors at the last stage. The following chemical compounds are used: "5-fluorouracil", "Capecitabine", "Oxaliplatin" and others. All drugs block the division of atypical cells, impairing their metabolism.

Chemotherapy is accompanied by side effects:

• severe weakness;
• headache;
• dyspeptic disorders (nausea and vomiting);
• alopecia (hair loss).

"Leucovorin" - a physiological agent based on folic acid, reduces the side effects of chemotherapy on healthy organs and tissues. It is prescribed together with toxic drugs.

Radiation therapy

Colon cancer treatment using ionizing radiation (neutron, X-ray, gamma). Radiation therapy interferes with the restoration of cancer cells, their further division and growth. Radiation exposure is contraindicated in severe cardiac pathology, diseases of the lungs, liver and kidneys during an exacerbation, in acute infections and blood diseases. Not used in pregnant women and children under 16 years of age.

Types of radiation therapy:

1. The use of radionuclides. Drugs are injected into the body using special solutions that must be drunk; either intravenously, into the abdominal cavity or directly into the tumor itself.
2. Remote technique. Irradiation of a cancerous growth is performed through healthy tissues. Suitable for tumors located in hard-to-reach places.
3. Contact radiotherapy. Closed radiation sources (needles, wires, capsules, balls, etc.) are introduced into the neoplasm. The implantation of foreign objects can be temporary or permanent.

Radiation therapy comes with side effects due to damage to healthy organs and tissues. Local and general reactions are distinguished. Local damage affects the skin (dermatitis, erythema, atrophy and ulcers), mucous membranes (redness and swelling, erosion and ulceration, atrophy, fistula formation) and organs (ulcers, fibrosis, necrosis). General symptoms are associated with the adverse effects of radiation on the body (inflammation of the intestines, metabolic disorders, persistent changes in blood composition, dysfunction of the digestive system). With repeated use of radiotherapy, chronic radiation sickness and cancer of other organs develop.

Forecast for life

It is determined by the 5-year survival rate of patients from the moment a cancer is detected. This is a critical period during which there is a high risk of recurrence and complications of the malignant process. The prognosis for life directly depends on the stage of the disease. It is important to detect bowel cancer in a timely manner. In the initial stages, it is curable.

5-year survival rate depending on the stage of the disease:

• Stage I - up to 95% of patients overcome the 5-year milestone;
• Stage II - up to 75% of cancer patients live for more than 5 years;
• Stage III - up to 50% of patients overcome the 5-year milestone;
• Stage IV - no more than 5% of cancer patients survive for 5 years.

Patients who have overcome 5 years of life, after surgical treatment of intestinal cancer, get rid of the possibility of getting a relapse of this malignant process.

Prophylaxis

The intestine is an organ located in the abdominal cavity that performs digestive and excretory functions. On an anatomical basis, the intestine is divided into two segments:

• large intestine,
• small intestine.

According to statistics from the World Health Organization, the intestine is the second organ in the human body that is most often affected by cancer. The first is the lungs. About 600 thousand cases of intestinal cancer are recorded in the world every year. This figure is even more impressive if we take into account the fact that the detection of this pathology, regardless of the stage of development, covers no more than 70 percent of cases of the disease. That is, we are talking about a million people a year, whose intestines are annually affected by cancerous neoplasms. In modern medical terminology, bowel cancer is called colorectal cancer (CRC).

The prerequisites for such a widespread occurrence of this pathology lie in the risk factors for its development. The main causes of bowel cancer are as follows:

• excessive enthusiasm for diets, due to which the diet is saturated with solid animal fats and depleted in fiber;
• excess weight;
• bad habits, including smoking and alcohol abuse;
• the presence of intestinal pathologies of an inflammatory nature.

In addition, recent studies in this direction have shown that people who, in their youth, often or for a long time took antibiotic drugs, are prone to developing colorectal cancer. A survey of more than 15 thousand volunteers showed that at risk are from 39 to 69 percent of those who took antibiotics for more than two months in a row.

Stages of bowel cancer

The most common and widely used classification of the stages of development of colorectal cancer in our country is the TNM classification. Its name contains the capital letters of three cancerous characteristics: tumor, lymph node and metastasis. Let's consider this classification in the form of a table:

Bowel cancer symptoms and signs

Like most cancers, CRC often manifests itself with distinct symptoms at the second or third stage, or only at the fourth stage. In addition, there are practically no vivid manifestations of this pathology, and people often confuse it with rather commonplace problems of the digestive system: poisoning, overeating, and poor etching.

Therefore, in case of any unusual manifestations from the intestine, it is imperative to consult with a specialist and try in no case to resort to self-medication of even the most simple, seemingly, problems. Since the timely diagnosis of bowel cancer is the basis for its effective treatment.

We will consider the symptoms characteristic of colorectal cancer in separate groups: for cancer of the colon and small intestine, as well as for men and women, since in all cases the manifestations of this pathology have rather significant differences.

Colon cancer symptoms

This form of colorectal cancer develops in the early stages almost asymptomatically, but after a certain time it begins to manifest itself with rather obvious symptoms. At the same time, it is generally accepted that colon cancer is easily diagnosed even at the first manifestations, only on the basis of a study of the patient's history and analysis of his complaints. This oncology is accompanied by the following signs:

• aching pain in the abdomen, which tends to intensify in certain positions of the body;
• digestive problems, most often among which are bloating, chronic stool disorder, intestinal obstruction, chronic nausea and vomiting;
• ascites or abdominal dropsy - a pathology characterized by the accumulation of an abnormal volume of fluid in the abdominal cavity, sometimes up to 20 liters;
• intra-abdominal hypertension.

Small bowel cancer symptoms

This subspecies of intestinal oncology is characterized by a higher complexity of treatment, especially if it is detected at later stages. Therefore, in the case of small intestine cancer, it is extremely important to be attentive to the following manifestations of the body, which may indicate the development of this pathology:

• a change in the color of feces towards dark tones, as well as the presence of blood blotches in them;
• acute attacks of gastralgia - cramping abdominal pain;
• sudden intolerance to certain foods;
• coppery taste in the mouth;
• traditional manifestations of problems with etching: vomiting, nausea, a feeling of bitterness in the mouth.

Colorectal cancer symptoms in women

A characteristic feature of the course of CRC in women is the involvement of the bladder in the oncological process. This promotes the development of a rectovaginal fistula, a direct passage that connects the rectum and vagina. This formation is manifested by the partial removal of gases and feces through the vagina. This symptom is the most specific manifestation of colorectal cancer in women.

In addition to rectovaginal fistula, bowel cancer in women can manifest with the following symptoms:

• irregularities in the menstrual cycle,
• blood spots in the urine,
• sudden weight loss
• unmotivated intolerance to fried and fatty foods.

Colorectal cancer symptoms in men

In men, the course of bowel cancer is quite often accompanied by damage to the prostate gland, which is manifested by specific symptoms. First of all, problems with urination should be the message for an unscheduled physical examination: pain, false urge, unnatural color of urine. In addition, CRC in men is often accompanied by the following symptoms:

• long,
• decreased sex drive,
• pain in the abdominal region and classic manifestations of etching problems.

As for the symptoms of bowel cancer, characteristic of all its types and for all categories of patients, among them the most common are:

• decreased ability to work and great fatigue with the same amount of work;
• a persistent feeling of general weakness, in which subfebrile temperature is also quite often observed;
• unmotivated decrease in body weight of a progressive nature;
• visual change in feces: the predominance of dark colors and the presence of blotches of blood or mucus;
• pale skin and mucous membranes.

It is worth remembering that none of these symptoms are specific indicators of CRC. Moreover, this oncology simply does not have such manifestations. But having noticed the changes described above in your body and, moreover, the combination of several of them, you need to pay close attention to the state of health in order not to miss the development of a serious pathology.

Life expectancy after colon cancer treatment

Finally, let's consider another issue related to colorectal cancer - the life expectancy of patients whose treatment has given a positive result. The figures here will be based on statistical studies that cover a fairly large number of patients. The so-called "five-year survival" is a concept that is used in mainstream medicine. It is understood as the number of patients who, after successful therapy, have lived for more than five years. The data of this study directly depend on the stage of development at which intestinal cancer was diagnosed and treatment was started.

You need to understand that all these are very average indicators, which additionally depend on many related factors:

• the patient's age,
• the state of his immune system,
• the presence of concomitant pathologies.

And the main thing to remember is that the probability of completely overcoming intestinal cancer exists regardless of the stage at which it was diagnosed. At the same time, time is both a partner and an enemy of the patient. If used rationally, the result of therapy is likely to be positive.

Bowel cancer is cancer that develops in the colon or small intestine. In other words, in the area of ​​the intestinal mucosa, a tumor of a malignant nature is formed. Despite the fact that the neoplasm is more often manifested in the large intestine, there are cases when it is localized in the rectum, colon, sigmoid and cecum. Today, among many cancers, intestinal cancer is considered the most common and frequent. Most often people get sick with it after forty years. If we rely on statistics, then this oncological disease ranks second after lung cancer in men, while in women, after breast and lung cancer, it is in third. With age, the risk of developing bowel cancer increases by several percent.

Causes provoking the appearance of the disease

The symptoms of bowel cancer can be easily confused with the signs of stomach cancer. Accurate diagnosis will allow you to prescribe the correct and timely treatment, thereby increasing the chances of a full recovery.

Bowel cancer symptoms can occur in people who often eat meat, fats, abuse alcohol and smoke, and are overweight. Indeed, for the normal functioning of all organs in the body, fiber is needed, which is found in legumes, whole grains, vegetables and fruits, nuts and berries. Fiber foods are especially beneficial for those who are overweight because they help burn fat while reducing the risk of disease.

Not the last place in the development of the disease is occupied by a genetic factor. The risk of developing a malignant tumor is much higher in a person whose relatives have been ill with intestinal cancer from generation to generation, especially if the disease manifests itself in youth.

The causes of the manifestation of a cancerous tumor may be some diseases: adenomatous polyposis, ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, inflammatory intestinal diseases. In this case, the symptoms of the disease occur spontaneously.

To date, the main cause of this oncological disease has not been fully understood, although scientists do not exclude that the above factors have a great influence on the development of the tumor.

Signs Determining Bowel Cancer

The first sign of bowel cancer is a tumor that is localized in a specific section of it. In the case of the development of a malignant neoplasm, pathological changes occur, the work of not only the diseased organ, but also the whole organism is disrupted. As a result, the general clinical picture of the disease appears. The signs of bowel cancer depend on whether a tumor develops in the left or right section.

A tumor that develops on the right side of the intestine

Early signs of intestinal cancer on the right side are expressed by loss of appetite, anemia, and general weakness of the body. Anemia is observed most often in patients in whom the development of a tumor occurs in the cecum and ascending. The first sign of bowel cancer is an aching and paroxysmal pain that radiates to the right side of the abdomen. The pain appears indistinctly, but quite regularly. Sometimes intoxication can be observed, expressed by general body fatigue and loss of appetite. Often the patient does not pay attention to such symptoms, and does not even assume the full severity of the disease, so he postpones the visit to the doctor. However, it should be clarified that weight loss does not always indicate bowel cancer. In very rare cases, symptoms such as vomiting, nausea, belching, dryness, and a bad taste in the mouth may indicate a serious illness. One of the important signs indicating cancer is an increased body temperature. If it does not go down for a long time, then it is necessary to urgently consult a doctor and take an X-ray.

Development of a tumor in the left side of the intestine

If the tumor is localized on the left side, then colon cancer symptoms will have slightly different, more complex, in contrast to the symptoms manifested on the right side. The patient complains of constant constipation, difficulty in excreting feces, and bloating. There is a frequent alternation of loose stools with constipation, through narrowing and relaxation of the lumen of the colon. Excretion of feces occurs with great difficulty, often with blood and mucus, accompanied by painful sensations.

Symptoms and development of cancer in the small intestine

Since scientists still cannot tell which signs of small bowel cancer are observed in the first place, the patient comes to the doctor's office with symptoms. When examining a patient, the doctor notes that the tumor has been progressing for a long time and begins to grow in the tissues. While some patients may experience vomiting, bloating, nausea, and weight loss during illness, others do not have similar symptoms at all. Well, the tumor at this time progresses more and more, grows in adjacent organs and becomes noticeable only when the patient begins to feel aching pains in the abdomen. With sarcoma, bleeding in the intestines can occur.

How are bowel cancer symptoms different in men and women?

When the tumor begins to grow into the intestinal wall and spreads to other organs in the vicinity, then the disease manifests itself with slightly different symptoms. Signs of bowel cancer in men and women with this course are practically the same. Later, if the tumor progresses and spreads to neighboring organs, then in men, the prostate is affected first, and in women - the vagina, and the rectal space and anal canal are also affected. In this case, the patient begins to worry about severe pain in the anus, coccyx, sacrum, lumbar region, men feel difficulties during urination.

The fact is that in men, a cancer of the intestine begins to grow into the tissue of the bladder, manifesting itself as a strong increase in temperature and the manifestation of an ascending infection of the urethra.

What is the difference between bowel cancer and stomach cancer?

The initial signs of stomach and intestinal cancer are very similar to each other, they are difficult to distinguish, as a result, the correct diagnosis can be made only after a thorough examination of the patient, X-rays and appropriate tests. Both diseases are quite common in oncology.

Usually, patients with stomach cancer do not even know about it for a very long time and go to the doctor only when the symptoms become palpable and painful. The symptoms of stomach and intestinal cancer are very similar. An intestinal tumor usually appears in the same place as a stomach tumor, and the patient has similar symptoms of the disease. Common signs include vomiting, nausea, pain in the chest, heart, between the shoulder blades, an unpleasant smell and taste in the mouth, and a feeling of heaviness in the abdomen. The patient may lose weight, he has no appetite, general weakness, anemia is manifested, urination is complicated, there are traces of blood in the feces. Since bowel cancer has almost the same signs and symptoms as stomach cancer, the examination of the patient must be approached with the utmost care and seriousness.

Bowel cancer: examination of the patient

In order to correctly diagnose and not confuse the disease with stomach cancer, it is necessary to carefully study the patient's analyzes, symptoms and the nature of the course of the disease. Pale skin and anemia are usually associated symptoms of bowel cancer when the right side of the bowel is affected. Much later, increased intestinal peristalsis is found, in rare cases, you can even feel the tumor itself.

Studies that need to be done to determine cancer

Blood tests are often helpful in detecting the early signs of bowel cancer. Sometimes you can find anemia in a patient, an increased norm of leukocytes. Of course, abnormalities in the general blood count do not always indicate cancer. Therefore, it is best to conduct appropriate research in clinical laboratories. If the disease progresses and is in the third stage of development, then the tumor can be easily palpated. To detect a malignant formation, it is imperative to make a biopsy and pass smears for cytological examination. If there is no tumor during palpation, bowel cancer can be detected using ultrasound.

How to treat bowel cancer

Having discovered the first signs of bowel cancer, the doctor, as the main treatment, usually prescribes an operation, during which the tumor itself and the tissues that are around it, the nearest lymph glands are removed. Until recently, during surgery, men had a risk of damage to the nerve endings of the genital organs, but today, thanks to modern methods, the latest technologies, this can be successfully avoided. Stage I and II bowel cancers are effectively treated with surgery and specially formulated diets. Only in case of illness at the fourth stage of cancer development, the intervention of chemotherapy is inevitable ..

Cancer prevention

Of course, observing the measures for the prevention of bowel cancer, one cannot be one hundred percent sure that a malignant tumor will not manifest itself again, but it is better to play it safe than to risk ignoring the doctor's recommendations. As a preventive measure, it is necessary to fill your diet with foods rich in fiber, fruits, vegetables, bran, try to consume up to two liters of fresh water daily. To cleanse the body, it is necessary from time to time to eat boiled rice and apples, beans, nuts, prunes, cereals. Try to follow such a diet for at least two months. Do not drink alcoholic beverages.