Symptoms Of Colon Cancer

Common Symptoms of Colon Cancer

Rectal Bleeding and Anemia

Rectal bleeding is one of the most specific symptoms of colon cancer, with a specificity of 99.4% and a positive predictive value (PPV) of 4.0%. It is frequently reported among patients, with studies indicating that 58% to 68% of patients experience this symptom . Anemia is another common symptom, present in approximately 57% to 60% of patients at diagnosis . Anemia often results from chronic occult bleeding and is more commonly associated with right-sided colon cancers.

Abdominal Pain and Changes in Bowel Habits

Abdominal pain is a prevalent symptom, reported by 40% to 52% of patients . Changes in bowel habits, such as constipation, diarrhea, or a general alteration in bowel movements, are also significant indicators, affecting 51% to 65% of patients . These symptoms are more frequently associated with left-sided colon cancers.

Distended Abdomen and Bloating

Symptoms like a distended abdomen and bloating are less specific but still notable. These symptoms are less sensitive and have a lower PPV compared to rectal bleeding. They are often reported alongside other gastrointestinal symptoms.

Symptom Variability Based on Tumor Location

Right-Sided vs. Left-Sided Tumors

The location of the tumor significantly influences symptom presentation. Right-sided tumors are more likely to present with anemia and are often diagnosed incidentally. In contrast, left-sided tumors are more commonly associated with visible blood in stools and changes in bowel habits. This distinction is crucial for early detection and appropriate diagnostic testing.

Diagnostic Implications

The presence of rectal bleeding and anemia often prompts further investigation through colonoscopy or other diagnostic tests. When abdominal pain is the primary symptom, computed tomography (CT) scans are frequently utilized. The combination of symptoms and diagnostic tests helps in the early detection and treatment of colon cancer.

Less Common Symptoms and Their Implications

Weight Loss and General Symptoms

Weight loss, although less common, is associated with colorectal cancer and has a diagnostic performance similar to rectal bleeding. General symptoms such as fatigue, anorexia, and nausea are also reported but are less specific indicators of colon cancer.

Paraneoplastic Symptoms

In rare cases, colon cancer can cause distant or paraneoplastic symptoms, which are not directly related to the local effects of the tumor in the bowel. These symptoms can complicate the clinical picture and delay diagnosis.

Conclusion

Colon cancer presents with a variety of symptoms, with rectal bleeding, anemia, abdominal pain, and changes in bowel habits being the most common. The location of the tumor significantly affects symptom presentation, with right-sided tumors more likely to cause anemia and left-sided tumors more likely to cause visible blood in stools. Early detection relies heavily on recognizing these symptoms and conducting appropriate diagnostic tests. Understanding these symptom patterns is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment of colon cancer.

Symptoms of colon cancer

Summary

Not a yes or no question