Diseases
colorectal cancer
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Overview
Colorectal cancer is a disease in which cells in the colon or rectum grow out of control. Sometimes it is called colon cancer, for short. The colon is the large intestine or large bowel. The rectum is the passageway that connects the colon to the anus.
Symptoms
- a persistent change in your bowel habits, including diarrhea or constipation
- rectal bleeding or blood in your stool
- persistent abdominal discomfort, such as cramps, gas or pain
- a feeling that your bowel doesn't empty completely
- weakness or fatigue
Causes
- in general, colon cancer begins when healthy cells in the colon develop changes (mutations) in their dna
Risk factors
- older age.
- african-american race.
- a personal history of colorectal cancer or polyps.
Diagnosis
- blood tests.
- using a scope to examine the inside of your colon (colonoscopy).
Medicines used
Frequently asked questions
What is colorectal cancer?
Colorectal cancer is a disease in which cells in the colon or rectum grow out of control. Sometimes it is called colon cancer, for short. The colon is the large intestine or large bowel. The rectum is the passageway that connects the colon to the anus.
What are the symptoms of colorectal cancer?
a persistent change in your bowel habits, including diarrhea or constipation, rectal bleeding or blood in your stool, persistent abdominal discomfort, such as cramps, gas or pain, a feeling that your bowel doesn't empty completely, weakness or fatigue
What causes colorectal cancer?
in general, colon cancer begins when healthy cells in the colon develop changes (mutations) in their dna
Which medicines are used for colorectal cancer?
bevacizumab, capecitabine, cetuximab, ipilimumab, irinotecan, oxaliplatin, panitumumab, ramucirumab, regorafenib, wheat germ
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