While rectal cancer does not typically present with symptoms before it is diagnosed, some common signs may be present even before the disease is detected. Gross red blood in the stool and change in bowel habits are common indicators of rectal cancer. Although hemorrhoids should be excluded, they are often present with obstructive rectal cancers. Other signs that indicate rectal cancer include diarrhea, inadequate emptying, or tenesmus. A patient may also have sciatic pain if the tumor has invaded the notch that separates the colon from the sciatic nerve. Surgery, however, will likely leave a gross disease.
Surgery is the most common curative treatment for rectal cancer. Advances in diagnostic imaging and population screening have improved the prognosis for these diseases. In addition to advances in surgical techniques, increased attention has been paid to improving quality of life for patients. Quality of life measures such as the EORTC QLQ-C30 and EORTC QLQ-C29 are frequently used to evaluate the quality of life of cancer patients.
Surgical treatment for rectal cancer depends on the extent of the tumor and the location of the tumor. Surgery may be necessary to remove the tumor. If the cancer has spread to nearby organs, a colostomy may be necessary. Patients may also have their rectum removed and undergo additional surgery. Some patients also undergo a urostomy, or a surgical opening in their anus. The purpose of this surgery is to eliminate waste and prevent the cancer from returning.
Endorectal ultrasound is another method for assessing the extent of rectal cancer. This test involves inserting a probe into the rectum and producing a sonogram. The test shows whether the cancer has spread through tissue, the lymphatic system, and the bloodstream. This is referred to as staging, and a doctor will use this information to determine the best treatment for the patient. It is important to note that the stage of rectal cancer determines whether it is curable or not, and the stage of the cancer is important for the prognosis and treatment of the condition.
If a person has family history of rectal cancer, she should undergo screening to determine her risk for colon cancer. A doctor will review her medical history and do a physical exam. In addition, she may insert a gloved finger into the rectum to check for any lumps. If the doctor finds signs of cancer, he may recommend a fecal immunochemical test (FAP) or a sigmoidoscopy. Screening schedule for these tests will vary, depending on the risk of the patient. If a positive test results, a colonoscopy may be necessary.
Risk of rectal cancer increases with age. It occurs at a higher rate in older adults. The average age at which rectal cancer is diagnosed is 63 for both men and women. Black individuals are also statistically at higher risk for developing rectal cancer. Smoking and certain health conditions increase the risk of rectal cancer. Even if you have no family history of rectal cancer, consuming processed meat, alcoholic beverages, and other substances may increase your risk.
