Cancer is counted among some very dangerous diseases whose diagnosis and treatment must be accurate. For accurate treatment, it is important to diagnose it properly. The location of the cancer is important to determine because the difference between colon and colorectal cancer is mainly the location. If you think rectal and colon cancer are the same, this article is for you. This article will explore the disparities between colon and colorectal cancer, including their definitions, variations, diagnostic imaging options, and affordable imaging services in Elizabeth, NJ.
Understanding Colon Cancer and Colorectal Cancer
Definition of Colon Cancer
The creation of malicious tumors in the large intestine is the key reason for colon cancer. The role of the colon is to help in the digestive process as it absorbs water and electrolytes from food when it passes the digestive system. If abnormal cells increase uncontrollably within the colon, it is the root cause of colon cancer.
Definition of Colorectal Cancer
On the other hand, colorectal cancer includes malignancies manifesting in the rectum and the colon, which constitute the large intestine together. The rectum is the terminal part of the large intestine, which connects it with the anus. Moreover, colorectal cancer includes the creation of tumors in the rectum and the colon. This is how it represents a broader term compared to colon cancer alone.
What is the Difference between Colon Cancer and Colorectal Cancer?
People might see many similarities between the two types of cancers. However, one cannot ignore the differences in order to get proper treatment. It is important that your medical professional knows the exact location of the cancer to suggest suitable treatment options. Let us scrutinize these distinctions more closely:
Location
Colon cancer affects only the colon, which is the long tube-like portion of the large intestine. Usually, it starts off as minuscule, non-cancerous polyps that have the potential to develop into cancer. On the other hand, colon and rectum are both impacted by colorectal cancer. The rectum is one of the several areas of the big intestine where tumors can form.
Symptoms
While both types of cancer may exhibit similar manifestations, there can be variations attributable to their respective locations. Prominent indicators of colon cancer encompass alterations in bowel patterns, the presence of blood in the stool, abdominal discomfort, and unintentional weight loss. In contrast, rectal cancer may cause rectal bleeding, a persistent urge to defecate, and a sensation of incomplete evacuation. If you experience any upper left quadrant pain, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and diagnosis.
Treatment Approach
Let’s explore some common treatment options:
Surgery:
The main course of medical care for locally advanced rectal and colon cancers is surgery. It entails the lymph nodes surrounding as well as the tumor being removed. To provide a different route for the removal of waste, a colostomy or an ileostomy may be required in specific circumstances.
Chemotherapy:
Chemotherapy eliminates cancer cells throughout the body by using anti-cancer medications. It can be used to treat advanced forms of cancer, decrease tumors, and target cancerous cells before or after surgery.
Radiation Therapy:
Radiation therapy utilizes high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors. It is often employed before surgery to reduce tumor size or after surgery to eradicate any remaining cancer cells.
Targeted Therapies:
Targeted treatments specifically target cancer cells or certain chemicals that contribute to the spread of the disease. These treatments are frequently applied as an alternative to chemotherapy or in situations of severe or metastatic disease.
Survival Rates
Since the location of the tumor is different, the survival rate also varies in the two forms of cancer. Particularly in cases of colon cancer, the survival percentage also depends on what stage it was at when it was discovered. The five-year survival rate ranges from approximately 90% for localized cancer to about 14% for cases with distant metastases. On the other hand, the rate ranges from 90% for the cancer in nearby areas to 15% if the cancer has spread to distant sites.
Symptoms of Colon Cancer and Colorectal Cancer
Common Symptoms
The symptoms of colon and colorectal cancer are similar; however, it is crucial to know that the presence of these symptoms does not always indicate cancer. Consequently, it is preferable to seek a medical expert’s diagnosis. Common signs of both cancer types include:
- Consistent alterations in bowel patterns, such as constipation or diarrhea
- Blood in the stool or rectal bleeding
- Abdominal pain or discomfort
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fatigue or weakness
- Iron deficiency anemia
Diagnostic Imaging Options
Accurate diagnosis of colon cancer and colorectal cancer requires various diagnostic imaging techniques. These imaging methods help healthcare professionals visualize the internal structures of the large intestine and identify any abnormalities or tumors. Some common diagnostic imaging options include:
Colonoscopy
A colonoscopy is a medical procedure that enables a physician to thoroughly examine the entire colon by employing a long and flexible tube equipped with a camera. Throughout this procedure, the physician also has the option of removing polyps or obtaining tissue samples for further analysis.
Virtual Colonoscopy
Virtual colonoscopy is also called CT colonography and is used to view the colon and rectum through cutting-edge computed tomography (CT) scanning technology. It offers a minimally invasive alternative to conventional colonoscopy and does not necessitate sedation.
Flexible Sigmoidoscopy
Flexible sigmoidoscopy entails the insertion of a malleable tube equipped with a camera into the rectum and the lower portion of the colon. This procedure enables medical professionals to examine the rectum and sigmoid colon for any irregularities or indications of cancer.
Imaging Scans
Imaging scans such as CT scans, MRI scans, or PET scans may be employed to evaluate the extent of cancer spread, detect metastases, and determine the stage of the disease. These scans provide intricate visual depictions of the colon and the adjacent tissues. If you’re wondering about the cost, you may want to inquire about how much is a CT scan with your healthcare provider or insurance company to understand the financial aspect of the procedure.
Diagnostic Imaging Network and Affordable Imaging Services in Elizabeth, NJ
Looking for diagnostic imaging services in Elizabeth, NJ? You’re in luck! Elizabeth Diagnostic Imaging Services is a standout provider popular for its cutting-edge facilities and wide range of imaging technologies. They offer affordable imaging services, including full body scans in NJ that are designed to assist in the early detection and diagnosis of various conditions. One notable focus is on colon and colorectal cancer.
Colon Cancer vs. Rectal Cancer
Understanding the distinctions between rectal cancer and colon cancer is essential when talking about colorectal cancer. Despite the fact that they both come under the general category of colorectal cancer, they have different traits:
- Colon cancer is a kind of cancer that develops and starts in the colon. The colon is the upper area of the large intestine.
- However, rectal cancer originates in the rectum, which is the lower area of the large intestine connected to the anus.
Although the symptoms, treatment methods, and diagnostic imaging options are similar, the exact location of the tumor in the large intestine determines the treatment plan.
Importance of early detection and Prevention
Timely detection of the cancer is necessary for the successful treatment of colorectal and colon cancer. The process includes regular screenings like colonoscopies, which are good for people at average risk starting at age 50. However, those with a family history of these cancers or certain risk factors may need to initiate screenings earlier or undergo more frequent screenings.
Leading a healthy lifestyle can help lower the chance of getting colon and colorectal cancer in addition to screenings. Preventative steps include:
- Following a healthy diet that emphasizes lean meats, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.
- Achieving and keeping a healthy weight through regular exercise.
- Restricting alcohol intake and abstaining from cigarette use.
- Understanding and managing any underlying conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease.
By following these preventive measures and undergoing regular screenings, individuals can significantly lower their risk of developing these cancers or detect them at an early stage. This is because treatment outcomes are generally more favorable.
Conclusion
Conclusively, a lot of people might think colon and colorectal cancer are the same, but the differences are the key to a proper treatment plan. Only when you understand the difference between diagnosis and treatment is possible. The key factors distinguishing colon versus colorectal cancer have been made clear in this article, but it is necessary to take medical advice and leave it to the healthcare professional to determine if it is colon or colorectal cancer. Treatment approaches and survival rates may vary depending on the tumor’s location. It is crucial to identify the common symptoms and undergo accurate diagnostic imaging procedures like colonoscopy or virtual colonoscopy as they are necessary for detecting and diagnosing cancers.
There are lots of cancer types, and most of them are deadly. The likelihood of survival varies with the cancer’s stage. Therefore, early identification is essential for receiving successful treatment. To make cancer curable, one must seek medical attention as soon as possible if they have any symptoms.
In Elizabeth, NJ, individuals can access affordable imaging services at Elizabeth Diagnostic Imaging Network, facilitating the early detection and management of colon and colorectal cancer. A person who goes through any of the risk factors should not take long to see a medical professional for a diagnosis and treatment plan.