Kolonkarzinom

Colon carcinoma is a malign tumor of the large intestine. Precursors are adenomas (polyps) in the mucous membrane of the colon; the risk of developing adenoma increases with age. Colon carcinoma is the second most common cancer in Germany and the second most common cause for death from cancer in Germany. Risk factors are consuming plenty of fat and animal protein combined with a low-fibre diet. Main signs and symptoms include a change in bowel habits, constipation and diarrhoea in turns, abdominal pain, peranal bleeding, weakness and loss of power. Anamnesis and examination including digital rectal exam as well as fecal occult blood test are vital for diagnosing colon carcinoma. If adenomas or colon carcinoma are suspected the examination is followed by colonoscopy, where required in combination with biopsy. In most cases colon carcinoma can be treated by open surgical or laparoscopic colon resection. The prognosis depends very much on the tumor stage. To prevent colon carcinoma regular screening is recommended from the age of 50.