Colon Cancer

Colon Cancer Screening and Diagnosis

Learn about the innovative screening and diagnosis methods used by OSUCCC – James experts to uncover and stage colon cancer.

Colon Cancer Screening and Diagnosis

Colon cancer is on the rise in adults, including young adults, and early detection and screening are key to reducing these rates. Here at the OSUCCC – James, our team of experts knows that if you or a loved one are at risk of being diagnosed or are undergoing preventive screening, you want access to the latest research, screening and diagnostic technologies. Our experts will be with you every step of the way.

Detecting colon cancer early for better outcomes 

If you’re aged 45 and older or your doctor recommends that you undergo colon cancer screening due to other factors, it’s important to get screened at regular intervals.

Colon cancer results when abnormal growths, called polyps, located in the colon, change over time and become cancerous. Polyps are slow-growing and often cause no symptoms. Therefore, it’s important to detect potential colon cancer early through routine screening. This ensures the best possible treatment outcomes. Experts at the OSUCCC – James can help you understand any potential risks that you may have to help reduce the likelihood of developing colon cancer.

Colon cancer screening

Cancer screenings can help find colon cancer at its earliest stage when the chances for successful treatment are greatest. These tests are usually done when you’re healthy and have no specific symptoms.

  • If you’re not at high risk for colon cancer, you should start colon cancer screenings at age 45.
  • If you’re at a higher risk because of a personal or family history of colon or rectal cancer, colorectal polyps or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) should be screened before you turn 45.
  • Newly diagnosed colon cancer patients should be screened for Lynch syndrome, a gene mutation discovered at the OSUCCC – James and the most diagnosed inherited form of colorectal cancer, as well as other potential hereditary causes of colorectal cancer. This screening can help clarify risk for future cancers for the patient and allow for testing of family members for the condition. This would help prevent colon cancer in those family members by identifying precancerous conditions and treating them before cancer can ever occur.

Screening tests for colon cancer

Screening tests can help find colon cancer at its earliest stage, when the chances for successful treatment, optimal outcomes and fewer side effects are greatest. These tests are usually done when you’re healthy and have no specific symptoms. Your doctor will determine what tests you should have depending on your unique needs.

Some tests used to screen for colon cancer include:

Colonoscopy

Colonoscopy is the most reliable and preferred screening method for identifying abnormal precancerous growths, called polyps. Using a long flexible tube with a camera on the end, a specially trained doctor examines the inside of the colon and rectum to identify polyps or other abnormal tissue, and remove them to prevent future cancer or to biopsy to make a diagnosis. You must prepare for a colonoscopy a day prior to the exam to make sure your colon is clear to get the best results. During this test, you’ll be given medication to help you relax and you may not remember the procedure.

Fecal occult blood test

A stool sample is analyzed for blood that may not be visible.

Fecal immunochemical test

This newer test can identify blood in stool using a special chemical that reacts to a protein in red blood cells. The exam can be completed without the dietary restrictions usually required for a fecal occult blood test. This test is usually required every year.

Sigmoidoscopy

A specially trained doctor analyzes the colon and rectum using a thin, flexible tube with a lighted end called a sigmoidoscope. A camera on the end of the scope can display images of the inside of the colon, and a special tool on the scope can assist in polyp or tissue removal. This is shorter than a colonoscope and only examines the distal part of your colon and rectum.

Virtual colonoscopy

Also called CT colonoscopy, this exam uses a special scanner that rotates around you to take X-ray images of the colon and rectum to detect polyps or signs of cancer. Preparation for this test is like a colonoscopy.

Diagnosing colon cancer

Your doctor may use one or more diagnostic tests to determine if you have colon cancer. Colorectal cancer is diagnosed by taking a sample of the tumor and looking at the cells of it under a microscope. This is most commonly done during a colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy.

Genetic analysis of the cancer

Analyzing certain gene changes that might be present in the cancer may assist in planning targeted treatment if you have colon cancer. Your doctor will determine if this test is right for you.

Tests used for staging colon cancer before surgery

If it’s confirmed you have colon cancer, your doctors may order tests to determine whether the cancer has spread to other parts of the body and to help stage the cancer. Our team uses a multidisciplinary approach to diagnosing and staging colorectal cancer, so they may order several tests to ensure accuracy.

Some of these tests may include: 

Computed tomography (CT) scan

The X-ray examination makes a series of detailed images using an X-ray machine that revolves around your body to create multidimensional images. An OSUCCC – James radiologist will read and interpret the results.

Positron emission tomography (PET) scan

A PET scan is an imaging exam used to find cancerous (malignant) tumor cells in the body. A small amount of radioactive sugar is injected into a vein. The PET scanner identifies areas where the radioactivity concentrates. These areas are more active and may indicate cancerous cells. These images can then be combined with CT images (known as PET/CT) to better locate the radioactivity. 

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

An MRI uses a high-powered magnet and radio waves to produce detailed images of the body. 

Ultrasound exam

Ultrasound uses sound waves to evaluate the organs and spaces inside the abdomen to determine if colon cancer has spread.

Chest X-ray

X-rays produce images of the tissues and organs inside the chest, especially the lungs. 

Tumor marker analysis

A sample of blood is analyzed for substances made by organs, tissues or tumor cells in the body that are linked to specific types of cancer. These are called tumor markers. Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) and CA 19-9 are associated with colon cancer and other diseases. 

Surgery

During surgery, a physician removes the segment of the colon containing the tumor and analyzes how far the cancer has spread within the colon. Lymph nodes are also removed at the time of surgery. The determination of the depth of the tumor and if lymph nodes are involved define the colorectal cancer stage.

If you’ve been diagnosed with colon cancer or would like a second opinion, please call The James Line at 800-293-5066 or 614-293-5066 to make an appointment.

Toward a Cancer-Free World Blog

With colorectal cancer rates rising among younger patients, Ohio State doctors at are joining colleagues across the country in recommending screening at age 45. Read More

 

Related resources

Colon Cancer Prevention and Risk Factors
Colon Cancer Symptoms
Types of Colon Cancer
Colon Cancer Treatment
Colorectal Cancer Rates on the Rise Among Younger Patients