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CHAPTER 8
Colorectal Cancer
CHAPTER OBJECTIVES
- Describe signs and symptoms associated with colorectal cancer.
- Identify colorectal cancer screening tests.
- Differentiate between sporadic and hereditary colorectal cancer.
- Detail genetic causes of familial adenomatous polyposis and hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer.
KEY TERMS
Adenomatous polyposis coli (APC)
Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP)
Hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC)
Colorectal cancer—also called colon cancer or rectal cancer—refers to any cancer in the colon from the beginning (at the cecum) to the end (at the rectum). Colorectal cancer occurs when cells that line the colon or the rectum become abnormal and grow in an out-of-control manner. Polyps are usually benign growths that protrude from a mucous membrane in the colon and rectum. If left untreated, these adenomatous polyps may eventually evolve into cancer.
KEY TERMS
Polyp: a usually nonmalignant growth or tumor protruding from the mucous lining of an organ such as the nose, bladder, or intestine, often causing obstruction.
Adenomatous: relating to an adenoma and to some types of glandular hyperplasia.
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