Colorectal Cancer

If a person has symptoms that suggest colorectal cancer, or if a person is at increased risk of developing this type of cancer, a doctor will first review their medical history and perform a physical exam. Any of the following tests may be done to help detect abnormalities or make a diagnosis of colon cancer:

• Fecal occult blood test (FOBT): This test checks for the presence of blood in the stool, which is often not visible to the naked eye. To perform the test, a small amount of stool is placed on special cards that are returned to the doctor or a lab for testing.
• Digital rectal exam: The doctor will insert a lubricated, gloved finger into the rectum and check for abnormalities.
• Barium enema (lower GI series): A series of x-rays of the lower gastrointestinal tract can be performed to check for abnormalities. A barium-containing liquid placed into the rectum coats the inside of the lower GI tract and makes it visible on x-rays.
• Sigmoidoscopy: This procedure is used to examine the rectum and lower part of the colon for polyps or abnormalities. A thin, lighted instrument called a sigmoidoscope is inserted into the rectum for this procedure.
• Colonoscopy: This procedure is similar to a sigmoidoscopy but uses a longer instrument (colonoscope) that allows viewing of the rectum and the entire colon.
• Biopsy: If any suspicious areas or polyps are noted, a biopsy may be performed. This involves the removal of a small amount of tissue, typically during a sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy. The tissue is examined under a microscope by a pathologist to determine if cancer cells are present.

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