Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a common form of cancer that affects the colon and rectum. It is a type of solid tumor cancer and is primarily divided into several types and subtypes based on their cellular origin, genetic features, and other characteristics.

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Symptoms

Symptoms of colorectal cancer can include changes in bowel habits, such as persistent diarrhea or constipation, and rectal bleeding or blood in the stool. Other signs may include abdominal discomfort, cramping, unexplained weight loss, and fatigue. In advanced stages, a feeling of incomplete bowel emptying or nausea and vomiting may occur.

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Risk Factors

Key risk factors for colorectal cancer include age (risk increases after 50), a family history of colorectal cancer or polyps, and having inflammatory bowel diseases like ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease. A diet high in red or processed meats, along with lack of physical activity, obesity, and smoking, can also increase the risk. Additionally, certain genetic mutations, such as those associated with familial adenomatous polyposis or Lynch syndrome, contribute to higher risk.

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Subtypes of

Colorectal Cancer

Adenocarcinoma
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Adenocarcinoma is the most common type of colorectal cancer, accounting for about 95% of all cases. It originates in the glandular cells of the colon and rectum, which produce mucus to lubricate the colon.

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Subtypes:
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  • Mucinous Adenocarcinoma
  • Signet Ring Cell Carcinoma
  • Medullary Adenocarcinoma
  • Tubular Adenocarcinoma
  • Villous Adenocarcinoma
  • Cribriform Adenocarcinoma
  • Colloid Carcinoma
Lynch Syndrome-Associated Colorectal Cancer
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Lynch syndrome, also known as hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC), is a hereditary condition that increases the risk of colorectal cancer, especially at a younger age. It is associated with mutations in mismatch repair (MMR) genes, leading to microsatellite instability.

Colorectal Neuroendocrine Tumors (NETs)
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Neuroendocrine tumors of the colon or rectum are much less common than adenocarcinomas, accounting for about 1-2% of all colorectal cancers. These tumors arise from the neuroendocrine cells, which produce hormones and can sometimes secrete excess amounts of certain hormones.

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Subtypes:
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  • Well-Differentiated NETs
  • Poorly Differentiated Neuroendocrine Carcinoma
Colorectal Squamous Cell Carcinoma
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Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the colon or rectum is extremely rare, representing less than 1% of allcolorectal cancers. It typically arises from the squamous cells in the anal canal or the transitional zone between the rectum and anus, but can also occur in other parts of the colorectal tract.

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Subtypes:
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  • Keratinizing Squamous Cell Carcinoma
  • Non-Keratinizing Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Colorectal Cancer with Microsatellite Instability (MSI)
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This form of colorectal cancer is characterized by defects in the DNA mismatch repair (MMR) system, leading to mutations in regions of repetitive DNA known as microsatellites. MSI is often seen in cancers associated with Lynch syndrome or sporadic tumors.

Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors (GISTs)
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GISTs are tumors that originate from the interstitial cells of Cajal in the gastrointestinal tract. While they can occurany where in the digestive tract, they are rare in the colon and rectum.

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Subtypes:
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  • KIT Positive GISTs
  • PDGFRA Positive GISTs
Colorectal Carcinoid Tumors
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Carcinoid tumors are rare cancers that develop from hormone-producing cells in the intestines. They are typically slow-growing and may not cause symptoms until they are quite large.

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Disclaimer: This list provides a comprehensive overview of some of the most common cancerous solid tumors, including theirtypes, subtypes, symptoms and risk factors. However, it is important to note that this list may not capture everypossible tumor type and subtype within this category. Cancer research is continually evolving, and new types andsubtypes may emerge over time. For a complete and personalized understanding of a cancer type or sub-type,individuals should consult medical professionals or oncologists. This information is intended for educationalpurposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice or diagnosis.