Comprehensive Colorectal Cancer Treatment at Advanced Oncology Clinics
Recognizing Symptoms & Signs of Colorectal Cancer/h2>
The symptoms of colorectal cancer can vary depending on the location and stage of the tumor. Common symptoms include:
Changes in Bowel Habits:
Persistent changes in bowel habits, including diarrhea, constipation, or a change in the consistency of stool.
Blood in the Stool:
The presence of bright red or dark blood in the stool, which may indicate bleeding from the colon or rectum.
Abdominal Pain or Discomfort
Persistent cramps, gas, or pain in the abdomen, which may be accompanied by bloating or a feeling of fullness.
Unexplained Weight Loss
Significant weight loss without trying, often accompanied by loss of appetite.
Fatigue:
A general feeling of tiredness and lack of energy, which may be related to anemia caused by blood loss.
Narrowing of Stool:
A noticeable change in the shape or size of the stool, which may become narrower than usual.
A Feeling of Incomplete Evacuation:
A sensation that the bowel does not empty completely, even after a bowel movement.
Diagnosis & Staging of Eye Cancer
Accurate diagnosis and staging are crucial for developing an effective treatment plan for colorectal cancer. At Advanced Oncology Clinics, our diagnostic approach includes:
Colonoscopy
A procedure in which a flexible tube with a camera is inserted through the rectum to examine the colon and rectum. Tissue samples may be taken for biopsy during this procedure.
Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT):
A test that checks for hidden blood in the stool, which may indicate the presence of colorectal cancer.
CT Colonography
Also known as virtual colonoscopy, this imaging test uses CT scans to create detailed images of the colon and rectum.
Biopsy:
A tissue sample is obtained during colonoscopy or surgery to confirm the presence of colorectal cancer and determine its type.
Imaging Tests:
CT scans, MRIs, and PET scans to assess whether the cancer has spread to other organs, such as the liver or lungs.
Types & Sub-Types of Colorectal Cancer
Colorectal cancer can be classified into several types, each requiring different approaches to treatment:
Adenocarcinoma:
The most common type of colorectal cancer, which begins in the glandular cells lining the colon and rectum. Adenocarcinomas account for the majority of colorectal cancer cases.
Carcinoid Tumors
Rare tumors that start in the hormone-producing cells of the intestines. They tend to grow slowly and may require specialized treatment.
Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors (GISTs):
Rare tumors that begin in the connective tissue cells of the digestive tract. GISTs may occur anywhere along the gastrointestinal tract, including the colon and rectum.
Lymphomas
A type of cancer that starts in the lymphatic system but can also affect the colon and rectum. Lymphomas in the colon are rare and may require a different treatment approach.
Sarcomas:
rare type of colorectal cancer that begins in the blood vessels, muscle, or connective tissue of the colon or rectum.
Comprehensive Treatment Approaches for Colorectal Cancer
Treatment for colorectal cancer varies based on the size, location, and stage of the tumor, as well as the patient’s overall health. At Advanced Oncology Clinics, we offer a range of treatment options:
Surgery:
Surgical removal of the tumor is often the primary treatment for localized colorectal cancer. Options include partial colectomy (removal of part of the colon), total colectomy (removal of the entire colon), and colostomy (creation of an opening for waste to exit the body).
Radiation Therapy:
High-energy rays are used to target and destroy cancer cells. Radiation therapy may be used before surgery to shrink the tumor or after surgery to reduce the risk of recurrence.
Chemotherapy:
Chemotherapy is used to kill cancer cells, particularly in cases of advanced or metastatic colorectal cancer. It may be used in combination with surgery or radiation therapy.
Targeted Therapy:
Drugs that specifically target the genetic mutations within cancer cells, helping to stop their growth. This is particularly effective in certain subtypes of colorectal cancer.
Immunotherapy:
A treatment that helps boost the body’s immune system to fight cancer, particularly in cases of advanced colorectal cancer or after surgery to prevent recurrence.
Coping with Treatment & Managing Side Effects
Managing the side effects of colorectal cancer treatment is crucial for maintaining quality of life. We provide comprehensive support to help patients navigate their treatment journey:
Nutritional Support:
Customized dietary plans to ensure patients receive adequate nutrition, which is vital for recovery and overall health.
Pain Management:
A combination of medications and alternative therapies to manage pain effectively and enhance comfort during treatment.
Physical Therapy:
Rehabilitation to restore strength and mobility after surgery or treatment, focusing on improving function and quality of life.
Psychological Support:
Counseling and mental health services to help patients cope with the emotional and psychological challenges of a colorectal cancer diagnosis and treatment.
Post-Treatment Care & Long-Term Monitoring
After colorectal cancer treatment, ongoing monitoring is essential to detect any signs of recurrence and manage long-term side effects. Our approach includes:
Regular Check-Ups:
Routine follow-up visits to monitor recovery and identify any early signs of recurrence.
Imaging Tests:
Scheduled scans to ensure the cancer has not returned or metastasized to other areas.
Colonoscopy:
Regular colonoscopies to check for any recurrence of cancer or the development of new polyps.
Long-Term Support:
Continuous access to our medical team for any ongoing care needs, including management of chronic side effects and support for overall health.
Surveillance & Monitoring for Recurrence
Vigilant monitoring for recurrence is a key aspect of post-treatment care for colorectal cancer. Our surveillance program includes:
Scheduled Check-Ups:
Regular follow-up visits to check for any signs of cancer recurrence or metastasis.
Patient Education:
Providing patients with the knowledge to recognize symptoms that may indicate a recurrence of colorectal cancer.
Access to Care:
Ongoing access to our medical team for any concerns or additional treatments that may be needed in the event of recurrence.
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQs About Colorectal Cancer:
Colorectal cancer begins in the colon or rectum, parts of the large intestine. Learn more about colorectal cancer.
Symptoms include changes in bowel habits, blood in the stool, abdominal pain, and unexplained weight loss. Explore colorectal cancer symptoms.
Diagnosis involves colonoscopy, fecal occult blood tests, CT colonography, biopsy, and imaging tests. Learn about colorectal cancer diagnosis.
Treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. Explore colorectal cancer treatment options.
Early detection and treatment can significantly improve outcomes for colorectal cancer. Understand colorectal cancer prognosis.
The most common types of colorectal cancer are adenocarcinoma, carcinoid tumors, GISTs, lymphomas, and sarcomas. Learn about colorectal cancer types.
Follow-up appointments are typically scheduled regularly, depending on the type and stage of cancer and the treatment received. Explore follow-up care.
We offer comprehensive support services, including nutritional support, pain management, physical therapy, and psychological counseling. Discover support options.
A partial colectomy is a surgical procedure to remove part of the colon affected by cancer while preserving as much of the healthy colon as possible. Learn about partial colectomy.
You can schedule an appointment online or call us directly. Our team will assist you in setting up your consultation.
