Colon Cancer

Colon cancer occurs in the large intestine or the lower part of the digestive system, called the colon. Colon cancer that occurs in the last section of the colon, is known as rectal cancer. In general, they are referred to as intestinal cancer, or collectively as colorectal cancer. Sometimes, the presence of collections of non-cancerous cells in the colon, called adenomatous polyps, can also develop colon cancer. Doctors strongly recommend the screening to identify polyps before they turn cancerous.

Symptoms of Colon Cancer

The early stages of colon cancer may not reveal many obvious symptoms in the patient. Depending upon the location of the cancer in the intestine, and its size, the symptoms may vary when they begin to appear. Some of these include:

· Diarrhea and constipation

· Changes in stool shape, size, and consistency

· Change in bowel habits

· Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool

· Unexplained weight loss

· Abdominal pain, cramps, gas, and discomfort

· Constant fatigue and weakness

Identifying Colon Cancer

Colorectal and colon cancer are aggressive conditions that require equally aggressive and prompt treatment for favorable outcomes and the patient's survival. The following tests may be done to diagnose colon cancer:

· CT scan

· CT colonography or virtual colonoscopy - using radiation to generate pictures of the patient's colon in order to observe and examine any abnormalities that may indicate the possible presence of colon cancer

· Colonoscopy - a flexible tube that is attached to a camera at its end is inserted through the patient's rectum to identify and examine the presence of abnormal conditions in the colon.

The course of treatment suggested by the physician may depend upon the severity of the cancer and on how far across the colon it has spread.

Colon Cancer and Diagnostic Errors

The symptoms of colon cancer are always varying from patient to patient. This leads to a certain level of uncertainty while trying to identify the symptoms of the condition. This in turn causes a misdiagnosis, a delay in diagnosis, or sometimes even complete failure to diagnose colon cancer. The symptoms of this condition have often been mistaken for hemorrhoids or inflammatory bowel diseases such as diverticulitis, colitis, or irritable bowel syndrome.

The risk factors associated with colon cancer include:

· The presence of adenomatous polyps

· Genetic history of non-polyposis coli

· Ulcerative colitis formation

· The presence of Crohn's colitis for over a decade

· Gardner's syndrome

· Turcot's syndrome

· Diets that are rich in animal fat and refined carbohydrates

· High exposure to asbestos

When a physician fails to identify the symptoms and consider testing the patient for colon cancer despite the obvious signs, it is considered medical malpractice, and the patient must pursue legal action against the healthcare provider for remedial actions. Contact New York City medical malpractice attorneys to have the most outstanding legal support by your side from the beginning. Rosenberg, Minc, Falkoff, & Wolff (RMFW) have law offices located in Astoria, Queens, New York City, and two locations in Brooklyn.

Call 212-344-1000now for free & confidential consultation. RMFW knows how to win medical negligence cases and will listen to what you have to say and determine the value of your case. Our feedback is based on years of knowing this arena and we know what a winner looks like. We ask for nothing upfront, we are paid when you are paid. We do not settle without your approval and we know how to handle ourselves in court if that is where this case takes us. 

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